Even the most seasoned drinkers can’t help but wince when taking a shot, and iconic CNN host Anderson Cooper proved he’s no exception during a live New Year’s Eve broadcast alongside co-host Andy Cohen.
The veteran hosts were broadcasting from New York’s Times Square on the night of December 31st, marking CNN’s annual New Year’s Eve Countdown celebration. Cooper, who has been hosting the event for over two decades, was joined by Cohen in 2017 for the memorable annual tradition.
In line with their customary New Year’s tradition, Cohen and Cooper decided to toast the incoming year with a shot of tequila. However, it’s clear that tequila isn’t Cooper’s preferred choice of beverage.
In a playful exchange, Cohen tempted his co-host by saying, “At the top of the hour, we typically have a toast, and… I guess I’m just wondering, does daddy get his juice?”
Cooper replied with a hint of humor, “Can daddy get his juice responsibly?”
Cohen humorously noted that Cooper “doesn’t really drink” and that the tequila shot they were about to take was Cooper’s first in two years.
As they took their tequila shots, Cooper couldn’t hide his grimace and even stuck his tongue out in response to the taste – a reaction that resonated with anyone who’s had an intense shot experience.
Viewers of the show found Cooper’s candid reaction quite entertaining and took to social media to share their amusement. One viewer said, “I was laughing so hard,” while another added, “Anderson’s face says it all!”
Interestingly, the hosts’ decision to indulge in a drink on air comes after CNN had previously imposed a ban on alcohol consumption during the New Year’s Eve Countdown broadcast. The network had implemented the ban following instances of tipsy hosts making controversial remarks during the live show.
As a reminder, in the New Year’s Eve Countdown for 2022, Cohen criticized then-New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, labeling him as a “horrible mayor” and referring to Ryan Seacrest and his team as a “group of losers.” Cohen later apologized for his remarks, and as they welcomed 2023, he and Cooper were unable to raise a glass.
However, their playful tequila antics in the latest broadcast suggest that the ban has been lifted, bringing some light-hearted and humorous moments to the annual tradition.
You can watch it below:
