Anderson Cooper: I've Always Known I Was Gay

CNN host Anderson Cooper has said that he cannot recall a time when was not aware of being gay.

“I've always known I was gay from the time I was a little kid,” Cooper told The Huffington Post Gay Voices Editor Michelangelo Signorile. “I can't remember a time when I wasn't aware of it, even before I knew what it was or the name of it.”

Cooper, the host of the daytime talk show Anderson Live, spoke to Signorile from Rome, where he is covering the conclave to elect the next pope.

The 45-year-old Cooper came out gay last year after ducking rumors for years.

He's the recipient of GLAAD's 2013 Vito Russo Award, which recognizes an openly LGBT media professional who has made a significant difference promoting gay rights.

(Related: Madonna to present Anderson Cooper with honor at GLAAD Media Awards.)

“I certainly don't think I'm worthy of it, but if it helps GLAAD and if it helps have more people know who Vito Russo is, then I think it is certainly worthwhile,” Cooper said.