Anderson Cooper is widely recognized as one of the most polished and composed journalists on television. However, in a recent appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Cooper peeled back the layers of his serious public persona, revealing a hilarious and utterly human childhood interest that had him giggling uncontrollably—much to the delight of the audience.

During the playful exchange, Cooper, who was joined by his close friend Andy Cohen, opened up about a long-forgotten hobby from his youth. After some gentle prodding from Colbert, Cooper admitted to an obsession with the historical dynamics of the Zulu Wars. Yes, you read that correctly: the famous CNN anchor and political commentator was captivated by a pivotal 19th-century conflict between the British Empire and the Zulu Kingdom.

The Impact of Generational Parenting Styles

As if Cooper’s childhood confession wasn’t enough, the conversation also touched on another hot topic—generational differences in parenting, specifically with Generation X. In a lighthearted exchange, Cooper and Colbert explored the humorous side of family dynamics, particularly regarding how millennials view their Gen X grandparents.

Over recent years, there’s been an ongoing conversation on social media where millennials have often criticized Gen X as the “worst grandparents.” This playful (and sometimes critical) commentary has sparked a cultural discussion on the role of grandparents in today’s families. Many millennials have voiced their disappointment with the perceived detachment of their Gen X grandparents, arguing that they’re not as involved in their grandchildren’s lives as they should be.

The Debate: Generational Gaps in Parenting and Grandparenting

However, Gen Xers have offered a counter-narrative, often citing their own experiences of growing up with a more independent and self-sufficient mindset. They argue that the values they were raised with—such as independence—shaped their approach to grandparenting. Gen Xers also claim that, rather than feeling responsible for babysitting, they prefer relationships with their grandchildren that are based on meaningful interaction, rather than just fulfilling a role.

While some millennials may view this as a lack of effort, it’s important to recognize that not all generations approach grandparenting the same way. As Cooper’s light-hearted commentary on his childhood and Colbert’s ongoing exploration of generational differences highlighted, these kinds of conversations are important in bridging the divide between the various generations.

Laughter as a Universal Connector

The combination of Cooper’s “embarrassing” childhood obsession with the Zulu Wars and the exploration of generational parenting styles turned the interview into something far more than just a comedy segment. It was a reminder that laughter and humility are universal connectors. Cooper’s willingness to share a silly part of his past invited viewers into a more personal space, offering a glimpse into who he is beyond his high-profile role as a journalist.

At the same time, the discussion of generational dynamics and family roles resonated with many in the audience. The debate about the role of grandparents, and the shifting expectations of family relationships, underscored the importance of embracing differences and respecting diverse family dynamics.

Final Thoughts: A Glimpse of Authenticity and Humor

As Cooper’s Zulu Wars revelation sparked laughter and nostalgia, it also reminded us that public figures, no matter how polished or accomplished, have their own quirks. The unexpected humor and candidness in this interview provided fans with a refreshing look at the man behind the news anchor.

And as the conversation expanded to the generational differences in parenting, it became clear that these kinds of discussions are valuable in fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and joys each generation faces. Whether it’s reflecting on our own childhood interests or questioning the way we view family dynamics, these conversations help build bridges and encourage empathy.

For those watching, it was a rare moment to see Cooper’s human side—and, as it turns out, an embarrassing love for the Zulu Wars—that made this interview even more memorable.