Anderson Cooper won't be inheriting any of his mother's money though she's very rich

Born into the fabulously wealthy Vanderbilt family, Anderson Cooper will have no share of the money.

CNN journalist Anderson Cooper opened up about his feelings with relation to being cut off from the huge family fortune.

Anderson Cooper will not be inheriting his share of the family fortune from his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, whose estimated net worth is around $200 million, almost twice as much as that of the CNN journalist.

Vanderbilt had made it clear to her son from a very early age that she won't be sharing any of her wealth with her children. Vanderbilt was one of the most iconic and sought-after heiresses of her day.

The family fortune was founded by the affluent shipping and railroad tycoon, Cornelius Vanderbilt, Cooper's great-great-great-grandfather. Vanderbilt, now 93, is the only heir to the family's fortune and is adamant that the money would not taint her children's future, or handicap their ambition or abilities.

"My mom's made clear to me that there's no trust fund... There's none of that."

Anderson Cooper

Cooper, 50, explained that his mother was very clear, and had explained that there would be no trust fund and that he would have to earn a living.

Cooper not only understood his mother's intent, he fully supports her decision. In his view, inherited money is a 'curse' that has poisoned the lives of many. Cooper does not believe in inheriting money, and feels that his life has been better because of not having any family wealth to lean on.

Cooper believes he "would've been so motivated" to build a successful career if he had thought there was a fortune waiting for him.

Cooper has become one of the most respected journalists in the world, and the recipient of many prestigious awards, including several Emmy's and the coveted Peabody.

Anderson Cooper believes that his mother's decision encouraged and pushed him to pursue his goals, realize his potential as a professional and as a human being, and become a successful media personality that he is today.