12/20: Saturday Morning
This week on "CBS Saturday Morning," severe weather threatens a busy holiday travel in the U.S. Plus, the latest details on the batch of Jeffrey Epstein files that the Justice Department released Friday.
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Kate Winslet's directorial debut
Kate Winslet is one of Hollywood's most accalimed actors, and now she's testing her skills as a director with the new Christmas film "Goodbye June." She sat down with "CBS Saturday Morning" to discuss the challenges of the new role after so many years in front of the camera.
Postal Service celebrates 250th anniversary
Benjamin Franklin was appointed the first postmaster general on July 26, 1775, nearly a year before the U.S. declared independence from Great Britain, according to the USPS. "CBS Saturday Morning" takes a look at how post offices across the country celebrated the anniversary.
The world's largest working instrument
The Wanamaker Grand Court Organ in Philadelphia is the world's largest working instrument, and "CBS Saturday Morning" gets a special look at what keeps it going.
Inside LEGO headquarters
"CBS Saturday Morning" gets a look inside the LEGO headquarters with its first American head of design.
Police seek motive in deadly shootings
Authorities are seeking motive after the man responsible for the deadly shooting at Brown University and the murder of an MIT professor was found dead in a New Hampshire storage unit on Thursday.
Where to get the latest CBS Mornings Deals
On this edition of CBS Mornings Deals, we feature some items that can help simplify your holiday travel and ease stress. Visit cbsdeals.com to take advantage of these exclusive deals today. CBS earns commissions on purchases made through cbsdeals.com.
Latest details on the new batch of Epstein files
The Justice Department released thousands of files relating to Jeffrey Epstein on Friday, including photos featuring people like former President Bill Clinton and Mick Jagger. However, survivors are concerned with how much information was redacted from the files.
U.S. launches retaliatory strikes in Syria
The U.S. launched retaliatory strikes against ISIS in Syria after a deadly ambush last week killed two American soldiers and a U.S. civilian working as a translator.
New defense law allows drone takedowns
President Trump signed the National Defense Authorization Act into law on Thursday, approving a record $901 billion in military spending for 2026. The NDAA authorizes law enforcement to take down drones at public gatherings, something police and professional sports entities have been requesting ahead of events like Super Bowl LX, the FIFA Men's World Cup, and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Severe weather threatens busy holiday travel
Nearly 123 million Americans are set to travel 50 miles or more over the next two weeks, AAA predicts, with more than eight million people expected to fly. "CBS Saturday Morning" reports on the severe weather threatening holiday travel plans.
Robby Hoffman on her new comedy special
Actor and comedian Robby Hoffman joins "CBS Saturday Morning" to discuss her John Mulaney-directed Netflix special "Wake Up," which premieres Sunday.
The best places to travel in 2026
About 91% of Americans are planning to travel in 2026, according to Marriott Bonvoy. "CBS Saturday Morning" explores some of the best places to travel next year, according to CBS News partner the BBC.
Where to get the latest CBS Mornings Deals
On this edition of CBS Mornings Deals, we feature some items that can help simplify your holiday shopping. Visit cbsdeals.com to take advantage of these exclusive deals today. CBS earns commissions on purchases made through cbsdeals.com.
Army overhauls mess halls with celebrity help
The U.S. Army tapped celebrity chef Robert Irvine to help overhaul its mess halls and meal options, and "CBS Saturday Morning" got an inside look at Irvine's process.
King Charles III on cancer treatment
King Charles III, who shared his cancer diagnosis with the world in February 2024, announced Friday that he would be scaling back his treatment after his doctors have seen success. The monarch also pushed for people to get early screenings, saying, "Early diagnosis quite simply saves lives."
Democrats release photos from Epstein estate
House Democrats released more photos from the estate of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein that include prominent figures like billionaire Bill Gates and former President Bill Clinton.
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A rare look inside LEGO's own secret shrine to the hugely popular toy
To what does LEGO owe its remarkable half-century success story? CBS News visits the toy giant's Denmark headquarters to find out.
Afghan refugees forge their way on the soccer pitch
The Taliban made women's sports illegal in 2021 when the U.S. withdrew from Afghanistan, but it hasn't stopped a group of refugees in Houston determined to forge their own way on the soccer pitch.
Inside Octagon House, one of D.C.'s oldest – and most haunted – homes
The Octagon is an approximately 10,000 square foot home designed by William Thornton, who served as the first architect of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.
Halloween costume prices are rising, but one man's thrifting offers a solution
As the cost of living continues to rise, so does the price of Halloween costumes. One Texas man is on a mission to ensure every child has access to costumes without spending a cent.
Saturday Sessions
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Old Crow Medicine Show performs "Corn Whiskey Christmas"
Two-time Grammy winners Old Crow Medicine Show are best known for their smash hit "Wagon Wheel" and their classic Americana sound. This year, the band is out with a new holiday album, "OCMS XMAS," which features both Christmas classics and new holiday songs. Here's Old Crow Medicine Show performing "Corn Whiskey Christmas."
Old Crow Medicine Show performs "Jolly Man"
Two-time Grammy winners Old Crow Medicine Show are best known for their smash hit "Wagon Wheel" and their classic Americana sound. This year, the band is out with a new holiday album, "OCMS XMAS," which features both Christmas classics and new holiday songs. Here's Old Crow Medicine Show performing "Jolly Man."
Old Crow Medicine Show performs "Holly Jolly Christmas"
Two-time Grammy winners Old Crow Medicine Show are best known for their smash hit "Wagon Wheel" and their classic Americana sound. This year, the band is out with a new holiday album, "OCMS XMAS," which features both Christmas classics and new holiday songs. Here's Old Crow Medicine Show performing "Holly Jolly Christmas."
Sierra Hull performs "Movement 3"
Sierra Hull is a singer and mandolin player who has collaborated with stars like Dolly Parton and Eric Clapton. The Tennessee native's album, "A Tip Toe High Wire," is nominated for Best Bluegrass Album at next year's Grammy Awards. Here's Sierra Hull performing the instrumentals for "Movement 3."
Sierra Hull performs "Stomping Grounds"
Sierra Hull is a singer and mandolin player who has collaborated with stars like Dolly Parton and Eric Clapton. The Tennessee native's album, "A Tip Toe High Wire," is nominated for Best Bluegrass Album at next year's Grammy Awards. Here's Sierra Hull performing the instrumentals for "Stomping Grounds."
Sierra Hull performs "Lord, That's a Long Way"
Sierra Hull is a singer and mandolin player who has collaborated with stars like Dolly Parton and Eric Clapton. The Tennessee native's album, "A Tip Toe High Wire," is nominated for Best Bluegrass Album at next year's Grammy Awards. Here's Sierra Hull performing "Lord, That's a Long Way."
AVTT/PTTN perform "Eternal Love"
AVTT/PTTN is a collaboration between The Avett Brothers and former "Faith No More" frontman Mike Patton. Their self-titled album AVTT/PTTN is a collection of nine songs that came out in November, and here they are performing "Eternal Love."
AVTT/PTTN perform "Received"
AVTT/PTTN is a collaboration between The Avett Brothers and former "Faith No More" frontman Mike Patton. Their self-titled album AVTT/PTTN is a collection of nine songs that came out in November, and here they are performing "Received."
AVTT/PTTN perform "Dark Night of My Soul"
AVTT/PTTN is a collaboration between The Avett Brothers and former "Faith No More" frontman Mike Patton. Their self-titled album AVTT/PTTN is a collection of nine songs that came out in November, and here they are performing "Dark Night of My Soul."
Ripe performs "Goon Squad"
Ripe was founded in 2011 by a group of students at Boston's renowned Berklee College of Music. Now in the midst of a nationwide tour after releasing their third full-length studio album in September, here's Ripe with "Goon Squad."
Ripe performs "Beige Suit"
Ripe was founded in 2011 by a group of students at Boston's renowned Berklee College of Music. Now in the midst of a nationwide tour after releasing their third full-length studio album in September, here's Ripe with "Beige Suit."
Ripe performs "Letting Go"
Ripe was founded in 2011 by a group of students at Boston's renowned Berklee College of Music. Now in the midst of a nationwide tour after releasing their third full-length studio album in September, here's Ripe with "Letting Go."
Robert Plant performs "Everybody's Song"
Rock and Roll legend Robert Plant, the former frontman for Led Zeppelin, is covering traditional folk in his latest album, "Saving Grace," and touring the U.S. with his band to support the album. Here's Robert Plant with "Everybody's Song."
The Dish
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The Dish: Taco Mahal
Danikkah Josan is the half-Indian, half-Puerto Rican chef and owner of Taco Mahal in New York City, where she serves mouth-watering fusion dishes like chicken tikka masala tacos and basmati rice bowls.
The Dish: Oceania Allura
Oceania Cruises' newest addition to its fleet of ships, Allura, offers unique fine dining and culinary experiences.
The Dish: Chef brings heritage to menu
"The Pig and the Lady," a restaurant in Honolulu, uses modern cuisine and vibrant flavors of Vietnam. The chef and owner told "CBS Mornings" how he puts his own spin on family recipes.
The Dish: Chef Ivan Orkin
Ivan Ramen has been a New York City mainstay since 2014. Now, Chef Ivan Orkin is bringing his unconventional, world-renowned ramen recipes to London.
The Dish: Sushi Meino
Sushi Meino is one of the hardest reservations to get in Tokyo right now. While less than 6% of Japanese sushi restaurants are owned by women, Chef Mei Kogo and her team are changing the game.
The Dish: Dishoom
Dishoom has amassed 15 locations across the United Kingsom in its 15 years in business. With its goal of combining Michelin-level Indian cuisine with the soul of London's curry houses, the brand now promises a New York location by 2026.
Man's journey from refugee to acclaimed chef
Yia Vang, the chef behind the Minneapolis hot spot Vinai, says his restaurant is a love letter to his parents. He arrived in the U.S. as a refugee when he was a young boy. Now, he blends his Hmong heritage and Midwestern upbringing to create innovative dishes that honor his family.
The Dish: Michael White
Michael White is a James Beard Award-winning chef who's racked up multiple Michelin stars. Now he's back on the New York dining scene with his new Italian restaurant Santi.
The Dish: Anna Ansari
Food writer Anna Ansari's new cookbook "Silk Roads" shares the recipes she has enjoyed on her travels around the world.
The Dish: Chef Erik Ramirez
Chef Erik Ramirez is redefining Peruvian cuisine with an unexpected fusion of Asian flavors at the Papa San in New York.
The Dish: Union Square Cafe
Union Square Cafe, founded by restaurateur Danny Meyer, marked 40 years in business in New York City this week. Dana Jacobson stopped by the iconic Manhattan establishment to reminisce with Meyer and grab a bite to eat.
The Dish: Sazon
James Beard Award-winning chef Fernando Olea is originally from Mexico, and brings classic Latin ingredients to life at his restaurant, Sazon, which is celebrating 10 years in business this year.
The Dish: Bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana
Award-winning London-based bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana takes "CBS Saturday Morning" behind the bar to make the perfect martini.
U.S.
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Artemis 2 astronauts rehearse countdown for upcoming moon launch
NASA is gearing up to send four Artemis astronauts on looping test flight around the moon in 2026.
Georgetown coach suspended for one game for water bottle throw
Georgetown men's basketball coach Ed Cooley was suspended by the school on Sunday for one game after throwing a water bottle into the stands at the end of a loss to Xavier the night before.
Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Reps. Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna join Margaret Brennan.
Khanna says DOJ Epstein files release was a "slap in the face" to survivors
Rep. Ro Khanna said the release of an initial tranche of files and photos related to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was a "slap in the face of survivors," while Rep. Thomas Massie said the DOJ is "flouting the spirit and the letter of the law."
Hassett says $2,000 tariff checks for Americans will depend on Congress
Director of the National Economic Council Kevin Hassett said Sunday that President Trump's idea to give Americans $2,000 checks funded by tariff revenue will "depend on what happens with Congress."
MoneyWatch
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Rome introduces tourist fee for some Trevi fountain visitors
Tourists visiting the Trevi Fountain are now going to pay more than just the legendary coin toss over their shoulder.
Want to work in AI? Here are the skills to master, economist says
Rapid emergence of AI will foster demand for new types of workers, including "explainers" and bias auditors, according to economist Robert Seamans.
Here's how much ACA costs would have risen this year without subsidies
Millions of people with an Affordable Care Act health plan face a massive jump in premiums next year — this chart shows just how much.
Trump reaches deal with 9 major drugmakers to lower prices
Nine drug manufacturers will offer their drugs to Medicaid recipients at most-favored-nation discounts in exchange for tariff exemptions.
Judge in nursing home bankruptcy case gives families fresh hope
A bankruptcy judge blocked an attempt by a nursing home chain's primary investor to shield himself from settlement payments and liability in lawsuits over allegations of poor care.
Politics
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Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Reps. Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna join Margaret Brennan.
U.S. Coast Guard pursuing third oil tanker off Venezuela coast, source says
The pursuit of the tanker, off the coast of Venezuela, is the second such operation this weekend and the third in less than a week.
Khanna says DOJ Epstein files release was a "slap in the face" to survivors
Rep. Ro Khanna said the release of an initial tranche of files and photos related to late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was a "slap in the face of survivors," while Rep. Thomas Massie said the DOJ is "flouting the spirit and the letter of the law."
Transcript: Reps. Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
The following is the transcript of the interview with Reps. Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, and Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Dec. 21, 2025.
Transcript: UNICEF's Catherine Russell on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
The following is the transcript of the interview with UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Dec. 21, 2025.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
Flu cases surging nationwide
Flu cases are on the rise across the country with CDC data showing more than 4 million illnesses this season resulting in roughly 2,000 deaths, including two children. Dr. Benjamin Abella, chair of emergency medicine at the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City, joined CBS News to discuss.
This professional Santa's dream of spreading holiday cheer fuels stroke recovery
Brent Rasmussen had a massive stroke in 2023. Getting his "ho ho ho back" helped motivate his recovery.
Here's how much ACA costs would have risen this year without subsidies
Millions of people with an Affordable Care Act health plan face a massive jump in premiums next year — this chart shows just how much.
Inside the FDA's vaccine uproar
A memo from Dr. Vinay Prasad, the head of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, may signal an effort to to rewrite the rules governing the U.S. vaccine system.
Trump administration unveils proposals to cut off transgender care for minors
The proposals run counter to the recommendations of most major U.S. medical organizations.
World
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12 bodies found outside Guatemala City linked to gang violence, officials say
At least 12 bodies were found in three days in a wooded area on the outskirts of Guatemala City, authorities said Sunday, linking the discovery to gang violence.
MS-13 gang member sentenced to 1,335 years in prison in El Salvador
Earlier this year, the U.S. designated MS-13, which was formed in Los Angeles in the 1980s by Salvadoran immigrants, a terrorist organization.
U.S. Coast Guard pursuing third oil tanker off Venezuela coast, source says
The pursuit of the tanker, off the coast of Venezuela, is the second such operation this weekend and the third in less than a week.
Thousands gather for winter solstice celebrations at Stonehenge
Many make the pilgrimage to the stone circle every summer and winter and consider it a spiritual experience.
Transcript: Reps. Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Dec. 21, 2025
The following is the transcript of the interview with Reps. Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, and Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Dec. 21, 2025.
Entertainment
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Actor James Ransone, known for his role in "The Wire," dies at 46
James Ransone, the actor who played Ziggy Sobotka in the HBO series "The Wire" and appeared in many other TV shows and movies, has died.
Young People's Chorus of NYC: "Jolly Toyland"
To mark the Christmas season, "Sunday Morning" presents a performance by the Young People's Chorus of New York City, of "Jolly Toyland," arranged by Francisco J. Nunez.
Young People's Chorus of NYC: "Deck the Halls"
"Sunday Morning" gifts to its viewers a Christmas tradition: a performance by the Young People's Chorus of New York City. They present "Deck the Halls," arranged by Francisco J. Nunez and Jim Papoulis.
Sean Ono Lennon on being caretaker of the legacy of John Lennon & Yoko Ono
The musician-songwriter-producer, who says he feels a responsibility to promote his parents' legacy, talks about the animated short inspired by their anti-war anthem, "Happy Xmas (War Is Over)," and the new HBO documentary "One to One: John & Yoko."
Extended interview: Sean Ono Lennon
In this web exclusive, Sean Ono Lennon talks with Anthony Mason about The Claypool Lennon Delirium, his musical collaboration with Les Claypool of Primus, and his upcoming jazz album. He also discusses his animated short film, "War Is Over!"; his custodianship of the musical legacy of his parents, John Lennon and Yoko Ono; how concert footage and previously-unknown private recordings came together in the documentary "One to One"; and how creating art is "a fundamental force" in his life.
Technology
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Want to work in AI? Here are the skills to master, economist says
Rapid emergence of AI will foster demand for new types of workers, including "explainers" and bias auditors, according to economist Robert Seamans.
DraftKings hopes to score big with new prediction markets app
Sports betting companies face mounting competition from rapidly growing prediction markets such as Kalshi and Polymarket.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Japanese woman marries AI boyfriend
People are starting to develop lasting connections with artificial technology. Melissa J. Perry, the dean of the College of Public Health at George Mason University, joins CBS News with more details.
TikTok nears deal to avoid U.S. ban
TikTok has signed a deal to sell its U.S. operations to a group of investors in America, a source familiar with the deal tells CBS News. Jo Ling Kent has more.
Science
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Major climate research center on Trump administration chopping block
The Trump administration intends to dismantle one of the world's leading climate research institutions, in Boulder, Colorado, over what it said were concerns about "climate alarmism."
Researchers capture video of rare polar bear adoption
The footage of a bear caring for an adopted cub was captured during the annual polar bear migration along the Western Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba.
Dinosaur tracks showing "herds moving in synchrony" found in Italy
Most of the footprints are elongated and made by bipeds. The best-preserved ones bear traces of at least four toes.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
Fossil footprints in Bolivia reveal dinosaurs' awkward attempts to swim
Paleontologists have discovered and documented 16,600 footprints left by theropods, the dinosaur group that includes the Tyrannosaurus rex.
Crime
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Crime
Khanna on full Epstein file release
Reps. Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, and Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, who pushed for the Justice Department to release the Jeffrey Epstein files, said the problem with the release isn't that it's "taking too long" and but that Friday's release is a "slap in the face of survivors."
Police seek motive in deadly shootings
Authorities are seeking motive after the man responsible for the deadly shooting at Brown University and the murder of an MIT professor was found dead in a New Hampshire storage unit on Thursday.
Epstein survivor on partial files release
The Justice Department released a new batch of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein on Friday. Epstein survivor Sharlene Rochard joins with her reaction. Then, Spencer Kuvin, an attorney who represents some Epstein survivors, provides further analysis.
New photos in initial trove of Epstein files
The Justice Department on Friday released a batch of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. CBS News' Erica Brown and Katrina Kaufman report.
Investigators struggled to ID Brown suspect while gunman went on to kill again
The manhunt for the Brown University shooter was complicated by the early misidentification of a person of interest and limited, low-quality video footage.
Space
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Artemis 2 astronauts rehearse countdown for upcoming moon launch
NASA is gearing up to send four Artemis astronauts on looping test flight around the moon in 2026.
Woman is first wheelchair user launched into space
A German aerospace engineer made history Saturday, becoming the first wheelchair user to go into space when she took a 10-minute trip aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
Blue Origin safely launches wheelchair user to space and back
German engineer Michaela Benthaus is the first person with a significant physical handicap to reach space.
Jared Isaacman, billionaire who's flown with SpaceX, confirmed to lead NASA
President Trump withdrew Isaacman's nomination for NASA administrator in April, before nominating him again in November.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
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Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
"Son of Sam": A serial killer's reign of terror
Calling himself the "Son of Sam" in a letter left at one of the crime scenes, David Berkowitz claimed voices were ordering him to kill -- starting in the summer of 1976, he went on a 13-month spree of impulse killings in New York City that left six dead and seven injured
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Riding along on the CPKC Holiday Train
Canadian Pacific Railway decked out its first holiday train 27 years ago. Now merged with Kansas City Southern and known as CPKC, the company is delivering festive fun all across North America. Lana Zak started her travels in Milwaukee.
Inside the idea of 50-year mortgages
Carter Evans reports on the perceived benefits and downsides of 50-year mortgages.
Flu cases surging nationwide
Flu cases are on the rise across the country with CDC data showing more than 4 million illnesses this season resulting in roughly 2,000 deaths, including two children. Dr. Benjamin Abella, chair of emergency medicine at the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City, joined CBS News to discuss.
Thousands honor Bondi Beach victims
On the final night of Hanukkah, thousands came to Bondi Beach to honor the victims of last week's targeted attack in Australia. Leigh Kiniry has more.
Power coming back online in San Francisco
Most of the lights in San Francisco are back on after a power outage left about 130,000 customers in the dark. Nicole Valdes has more.