In a moving new episode of CNN’s award-winning podcast “All There Is with Anderson Cooper” released today, legendary musician and poet Patti Smith joins host Anderson Cooper for a heartfelt conversation about grief, sharing her personal experiences with loss and reflecting on how to live with profound sorrow. Smith, who has faced the deaths of her husband Fred ‘Sonic’ Smith, her brother Todd, and her lifelong friend Robert Mapplethorpe, describes grief as creating ‘sacred wounds’ that never fully heal but can be navigated over time.
The interview, timed around the anniversary of her husband’s passing and Mapplethorpe’s birthday, delves into Smith’s evolving perspective on loss as she approaches 79. She emphasizes that grief is not a linear process but one that ebbs and flows, with some years bringing sharp pain and others a sense of gratitude for having known those who are gone. Smith recounts poignant moments, such as feeling her brother’s presence as a warm glow during a low point, illustrating her belief that the dead can still communicate if we learn to listen.
Anderson Cooper, who has been open about his own grief following the deaths of his father and brother, frames the discussion within his broader podcast mission to explore loss and connect with others who have experienced life-altering tragedies. He shares how turning toward his grief has allowed him to feel a renewed relationship with his father, mirroring Smith’s insights on maintaining bonds with loved ones after death. The conversation highlights the podcast’s role in fostering a community where grief is discussed openly, reducing the isolation often felt by those mourning.
Smith also touches on the multifaceted nature of grief, noting that it encompasses not only sadness but also joy, laughter, and anger. She recalls laughing with her sister at their brother’s funeral, a moment that defied conventional expectations but reinforced their familial connection. This anecdote underscores her message that grief has no set rules and that allowing oneself to experience the full spectrum of emotions is key to healing.
The episode is part of the podcast’s third season, which expanded to year-round production in October 2025 and features a live interactive component. Smith’s appearance follows interviews with other notable figures like Kelsey Grammer and Ben Stiller, all aimed at destigmatizing conversations about loss. Her reflections offer a blend of personal narrative and philosophical wisdom, resonating with Cooper’s goal of helping listeners feel less alone in their grief.
As Smith and Cooper discuss the enduring impact of loss, they emphasize that grief can shape one’s capacity for love and understanding. Smith’s ability to find meaning in her pain, coupled with Cooper’s empathetic hosting, provides a compelling narrative that encourages listeners to embrace their own grief journeys. The episode concludes with a reminder of the podcast’s ongoing live shows, inviting audience participation to further explore these themes.
Overall, this interview stands as a significant cultural moment, blending entertainment with profound emotional depth. It not only highlights Smith’s enduring influence as an artist but also reinforces the importance of media platforms in addressing universal human experiences. For those grappling with loss, the conversation offers both comfort and a nuanced perspective on living with grief.
