Late last year, you may recall that a CNN International crew, along with actor Christian Bale, were roughed up by Chinese police after trying to visit detained Chinese human rights activist Chen Guangcheng. Earlier this month, while reporting on his escape from custody and subsequent discussions with U.S. officials, CNN ended up being blocked in China.

The network’s dedication to the story is paying off, as it has secured the first TV interview with Chen since arrived in the U.S. last week. Anderson Cooper interviewed Chen this afternoon (pictured), and the story will run tonight on “AC360″ and on CNN International.