CNN viewers are gearing up for another lively New Year’s Eve celebration with the dynamic duo of Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen. The chaos-loving pair are set to delight audiences once again with their boozy ball drop from Times Square, a tradition that promises plenty of laughs and surprises.
During a recent episode of Watch What Happens Live, Cohen confirmed that he plans to keep the drinks flowing for Cooper, who has often taken a more reserved approach compared to his co-host. “Yes, we can drink,” Cohen stated with enthusiasm. “We will be drinking. Yes. It’s my job to get Anderson drunk.” This declaration was met with cheers from guests, including Hollywood star Kate Hudson and rapper Ice Spice, as well as an animated audience.
The chemistry between Cooper and Cohen has produced memorable and at times controversial moments in previous broadcasts. Their antics last New Year’s Eve included Cohen’s infamous remarks about then-outgoing New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, which sparked significant backlash. Cohen criticized de Blasio harshly, stating, “The only thing that Democrats and Republicans can agree on is what a horrible mayor he has been.” He later expressed regret for his comments about competing broadcasts, admitting, “I was just stupid and drunk.”
After that incident, CNN momentarily restricted the pair from drinking live on air, resulting in them resorting to pickle juice shots. However, following viewer demand, they were allowed to resume drinking, leading to heightened anticipation for this year’s show.
Looking ahead, the outgoing Mayor Eric Adams presents a new subject of speculation for Cohen’s commentary. Adams is set to leave office for Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani in 2026, following a tumultuous tenure marked by a low approval rating. Recent polling has shown Adams struggling to maintain public support, which adds another layer of intrigue to how Cohen may address the mayor’s legacy.
As the countdown to midnight approaches, fans can expect an entertaining mix of humor, drinks, and perhaps some sharp political jabs as Cooper and Cohen usher in the New Year in their signature style. The lively duo has proven time and again that their off-the-cuff humor, folded in with a few drinks, makes for must-watch television.