12/21: Sunday Morning
Hosted by Jane Pauley. Featured: the town that inspired "It's a Wonderful Life"; Sean Ono Lennon on his parents' legacy; the a capella group Pentatonix; a New Mexico monastery; remembering Rob Reiner; and the Rockettes.
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Touring a wasteland in Gaza
After the Israel-Hamas war broke out nine months ago, more than a million people sought shelter in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip. In May, Israel launched a ground offensive in Rafah and says it has since killed more than 900 Hamas fighters there. But the cost has been a shattered, unlivable city. Correspondent Holly Williams reports.
Afrofuturism: Turning pain into possibility
Correspondent Nancy Giles visits art exhibitions, in Washington, D.C., and New York City, that explore the possibilities of a future as distilled through the pain and promise of the African diaspora.
Hoppin' clams! "SpongeBob SquarePants" turns 25
In the 25 years since his debut on Nickelodeon, SpongeBob SquarePants, the animated character who lives in a pineapple under the sea, has also appeared in video games, three feature films, and even a Broadway musical. For the voice actors behind SpongeBob and other denizens of Bikini Bottom, the show – a gentle, silly reminder about the value of optimism and friendship – also reminds us of the kid inside us all. Lee Cowan reports.
Raccoon rescue
In Burton, Michigan, friends Tyler Whalen, John Ptaszenski and Bill Messenger were just wrapping up their weekly backyard cookout when a raccoon appeared, in distress. Messenger leapt to action to render aid. As Whalen told it, "We were pumped for that little dude." Steve Hartman reports.
The heights of professional cliff diving
Professional cliff divers plunge from platforms as high as nine stories tall, all while being judged for their artistry as they twist and flip at 65 miles per hour. They compete on a six-country tour as part of the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. Correspondent Seth Doane watches a competition in the Italian coastal town of Polignano a Mare, and speaks with athletes Molly Carlson, Aidan Heslop and Ellie Smart about what it takes to compete in this jaw-dropping sport. (Originally broadcast January 14, 2024.)
Passage: In memoriam
"Sunday Morning" remembers some of the notable figures who left us this week, including famed screenwriter Robert Towne, who won an Oscar for his noir thriller "Chinatown."
Russia's latest tactics to seize Ukrainian territory
Russia has taken 430 square miles of Ukraine over the past nine months, while thousands of bombs and millions of artillery shells have turned the battlefield into a moonscape of craters. But it comes at a very high cost for the Kremlin – by some estimates, Russia is losing between 25,000 to 30,000 troops per month. CBS News national security correspondent David Martin reports on how support from Ukraine's allies will determine whether Russia's latest offensive succeeds or fails.
A Henry Mancini tribute album
In honor of the composer's centenary next year, the family of Henry Mancini has been recording a tribute album featuring some of the Oscar- and Grammy-winner's most beloved music, performed by some of the most celebrated artists today. Correspondent Tracy Smith talks with flutists James Galway and Lizzo, who are putting their paws on the "Pink Panther" theme; and Michael Bublé, recording the song that Audrey Hepburn made famous, "Moon River." (Originally broadcast on October 22, 2023.)
Determined Biden dismisses calls to drop out of race
As Democratic faithful in deep-blue Madison, Wis., rallied this past week behind President Joe Biden, who said he's continuing his bid for a second term, some Democratic lawmakers – still grim about fallout from the 81-year-old's debate against former President Donald Trump – haven't been as upbeat. CBS News chief election & campaign correspondent Robert Costa talks with historian Doris Kearns Goodwin about what the experience of two past incumbent presidents, Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Lyndon B. Johnson, may teach us about Biden's campaign for reelection.
The Big Green Egg: The thrill of the grill
The large egg-shaped cooking device, known as the Big Green Egg, takes its inspiration from ancient ovens. But for nearly 50 years the gastronomic gadget has been winning over fans who use it for everything from steaks to pies. Correspondent Serena Altschul looks at the magic of cooking with the egg. (Originally broadcast on November 19, 2023.)
More From Sunday Morning
A New Mexico monastery where the silence calls
The Monastery of Christ in the Desert, in Northern New Mexico, is home to 15 Benedictine monks, some livestock, and a guesthouse for people looking for a little quiet in this turbulent world. "Sunday Morning" pays a visit.
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."
Pentatonix: Friendships and harmonies
The a cappella quintet has won three Grammys and sold 10 million albums. Kirstin Maldonado, Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kevin Olusola and Matt Sallee talk about bringing their heavenly voices to the sounds of Christmas.
Remembering the treasured films of Rob Reiner
Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz looks back at the work of actor and director Rob Reiner, whose films became part of our shared cinematic language because of their humor, drama, and aching belief in humanity.
The enduring message of "It's a Wonderful Life"
Ted Koppel visits Seneca Falls, the Central New York town that's said to have inspired the 1946 Jimmy Stewart classic "It's a Wonderful Life," a film that celebrates smalltown virtues and happy endings, and which still has a powerful hold on our imagination.
This week on "Sunday Morning" (Dec. 21)
A look at the features for this week's broadcast of the Emmy-winning program, hosted by Jane Pauley.
A guide to "Made in America" holiday gifts, state by state
The Made in America Holiday Gift Guide, promoting products made in the U.S., includes more than 150 companies from all 50 states. For small business owners, being included in this year's gift guide feels close to a Christmas miracle.
Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson on the musical alchemy of "Song Sung Blue"
In their new movie, "Song Sung Blue," Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson play Mike and Claire Sardina, the real-life musical impersonators from Milwaukee who sang as the Neil Diamond tribute act Lightning & Thunder.
Fear of flying: Faith Salie on Secretary Duffy and the pajama resistance
When Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy admonished air travelers who didn't "dress up" for their flights, flyers responded – by wearing pajamas. Faith Salie looks at what travelers think of the Secretary's flight of fancy.
What are the prospects for laid-off workers?
In 2025, more than 1.1 million Americans were laid off from their jobs, the most since the COVID pandemic, even as corporate profits remain high. Business experts discuss the reasons why companies resort to layoffs.
U.S.
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Powerball $1.817 billion Christmas Eve jackpot won by one ticket, in Arkansas
A single winning ticket was sold for Powerball's Christmas Eve jackpot of $1.817 billion, in Arkansas. It was the second biggest winning jackpot in U.S. lottery history.
NHTSA investigating Tesla Model 3 emergency door handles
Traffic safety regulators are reviewing a motorist's complaints that the manual door handles on some Model 3 cars are hard to find, a potential hazard in a crash.
Hawaii cruise passengers face new climate change tax after court ruling
The new tourist tax imposes an 11% tax on the gross fares paid by a cruise ship's passengers to address climate change threats to Hawaii.
DOJ says "over a million more documents" found, potentially related to Epstein case
The Justice Department said the process of releasing the Epstein files may take "a few more weeks" due to the volume of materials.
How to save money on your utility bill this winter as heating costs rise
Many Americans face soaring costs to heat their homes this winter. Here are some ways to lower your monthly utility bill.
MoneyWatch
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NHTSA investigating Tesla Model 3 emergency door handles
Traffic safety regulators are reviewing a motorist's complaints that the manual door handles on some Model 3 cars are hard to find, a potential hazard in a crash.
Hawaii cruise passengers face new climate change tax after court ruling
The new tourist tax imposes an 11% tax on the gross fares paid by a cruise ship's passengers to address climate change threats to Hawaii.
How to save money on your utility bill this winter as heating costs rise
Many Americans face soaring costs to heat their homes this winter. Here are some ways to lower your monthly utility bill.
We asked experts to rate the U.S. economy in 2025. Here's what they said.
The economy remained on track this year, defying the gloomiest predictions. That doesn't mean Americans are thrilled with how things are going.
U.S. says China's chip policies are unfair but will delay tariffs to 2027
The U.S. Trade Representative said tariffs on Chinese semiconductors, now at zero, are set to increase in June 2027.
Politics
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Kennedy Center Christmas Eve concert canceled after Trump's name added
A planned Christmas Eve jazz concert at the Kennedy Center has been canceled.
Trump promises to guard against "bad Santa" in Christmas Eve calls with kids
President Trump spent part of Christmas Eve bantering with kids, updating families on NORAD's Santa tracker and reminding one child that the big guy has a "serious appetite."
Trump-backed candidate declared winner of Honduras' presidential vote
President Trump-backed candidate Nasry Asfura has won Honduras' presidential election, the country's electoral authorities said, ending a weeks-long count.
DOJ says "over a million more documents" found, potentially related to Epstein case
The Justice Department said the process of releasing the Epstein files may take "a few more weeks" due to the volume of materials.
Judge blocks Trump from stripping security clearance from attorney for now
Trump signed an executive order in March saying it was "no longer in the national interest" for attorney Mark Zaid and others to access classified information.
HealthWatch
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FDA approves Wegovy pill for weight loss
The Food and Drug Administration has approved a pill version of the weight-loss drug Wegovy.
Aetna to cover IVF treatments for same-sex couples in national settlement
A federal judge has approved a preliminary agreement for a class action lawsuit requiring Aetna to cover fertility treatments for same-sex couples as they do with heterosexual couples.
Flu season is ramping up, and some experts are "pretty worried"
Doctors and scientists say this year's influenza season could be tougher than usual, with a new version of the flu virus, called H3N2, spreading quickly.
Finding hope through cancer clinical trials
#LillyPartner Cancer clinical trials can offer patients access to investigational treatments that can be explored as early as the time of diagnosis. Ovarian cancer survivor Alicia Dellario and Dr. Arjun Balar, senior vice president of global clinical development at Eli Lilly and Company, join "CBS Mornings" to talk about the potential benefits of cancer clinical trials -- and clarify common misconceptions. Visit cancerclinicaltrials.lilly.com for more information. (Sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company)
Details on new flu strain as cases rise
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates there have been 4.6 million flu cases across the U.S. since the season began. Dr. Amanda Kravitz, a pediatrician at Weill Cornell in New York, explains what to know about rising cases, symptoms to watch for and how to protect your family.
World
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Trump-backed candidate declared winner of Honduras' presidential vote
President Trump-backed candidate Nasry Asfura has won Honduras' presidential election, the country's electoral authorities said, ending a weeks-long count.
Photos of ways Christmas is celebrated all around the world
Billions worldwide mark the birth of Jesus of Nazareth with various traditions.
Investigators probe plane crash in Turkey that killed Libyan military officials
The private jet carrying Libya's Gen. Muhammad Ali Ahmad al-Haddad and four other military officials crashed on Tuesday.
Thousands attend Christmas Eve events in Bethlehem, the first since Gaza war
Thousands of people traveled from nearby towns and villages to attend Bethlehem's annual Christmas Eve tree lighting ceremony, which was canceled the last two years.
Ukraine peace plan might include demilitarized zones, Zelenskyy says
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says a plan to end his country's war with Russia might include the establishment of demilitarized zones between Ukrianian and Russian forces.
Entertainment
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Kennedy Center Christmas Eve concert canceled after Trump's name added
A planned Christmas Eve jazz concert at the Kennedy Center has been canceled.
NYT movie critic breaks down top 2025 movies
The New York Times movie critic Alissa Wilkinson ranked the top films of 2025. She joins CBS News 24/7 to review this year's list.
Small Oklahoma town pays homage to leg lamp
The leg lamp in "A Christmas Story" might be one of cinema's most iconic props, and one small town in Oklahoma has a special way to celebrate it. Omar Villafranca reports.
Kiefer Sutherland on new comedy "Tinsel Town"
Kiefer Sutherland stars in the new holiday comedy "Tinsel Town," about a washed-up Hollywood actor who lands in a small English town doing a theater production of "Cinderella." He talks about what drew him to the role.
Taylor Swift donates $1 million to Feeding America, group says
Feeding America's CEO said the organization is "incredibly grateful" for Taylor Swift's large donation.
Technology
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Technology
Instacart ending AI price tests for retailers
Instacart says its ending its controversial system of using AI price tests for retailers. Earlier this month, an investigation by Consumer Reports and progressive think tank Groundwork Collaborative found that Instacart's algorithmic pricing charged various prices for the same item from the same store. Jo Ling Kent reports.
Tech companies push for data centers
Massive tech companies wanting to build more data centers in the U.S. are lobbying for support among Americans, according to a recent report by POLITICO. Gabby Miller joins CBS News with more on her reporting.
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.
Top tech gadgets of 2025
Timothy Werth, a tech editor at Mashable, joins "CBS News 24/7" to discuss the best gadgets of 2025.
Instacart to end AI price tests for retailers following investigation
Instacart had drawn criticism for testing an AI-based system that enabled retailers to charge different prices for the same grocery items.
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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Terry Rozier seeks to have charges thrown out in NBA gambling case
His lawyers argued that Rozier's alleged involvement in the wire fraud and money laundering conspiracies is limited.
California farming magnate arrested in Arizona in wife's shooting death
A prominent California farmer was arrested in the shooting death of his estranged wife in a remote mountain community in Arizona, authorities said.
D.C. National Guard shooting suspect facing 5 additional federal charges
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, is accused of fatally shooting Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom and wounding Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe.
Officials: Melodee Buzzard's body recovered
California authorities announced Tuesday they have found the body of 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard and arrested her mother for murder. See the full news conference.
Delaware state trooper killed in DMV shooting
A Delaware state trooper was killed Tuesday during a shooting at a Wilmington DMV, the Delaware State Police said. The state's governor confirmed the shooter is also dead.
Space
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Space
NASA's search for next lunar rover
NASA astronauts took their first drive on the moon 54 years ago. Now, three companies are competing for a NASA contract to build a new lunar rover for use starting with the Artemis 5 mission in 2030. Kris Van Cleave reports.
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.
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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.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
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.
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Why flamingos are returning to Florida
In late 19th-century Florida, hunters pushed flamingos into functional extinction. But something changed over the last 25 years when hurricanes in the Caribbean chased them into the Everglades. Mark Strassmann reports.
Christmas celebrations slowly return to Bethlehem
Thousands traveled from nearby towns and villages to attend Bethlehem's annual tree lighting ceremony in Manger Square -- the first such celebration since 2023. As Imtiaz Tyab reports, there's hope for a brighter future and lasting peace.
Gas leak suspected in deadly nursing home blasts
At least two people were killed, and about 20 others were taken to hospitals, after a gas leak is believed to have sparked two explosions and a fire at a nursing home in Pennsylvania. Lilia Luciano has more on the victims and the investigation.
Burn areas at risk for mudslides in California
The hills of Altadena, California, scorched at the beginning of this year by a wildfire, are now sliding amid heavy rain. Andres Gutierrez spoke to one homeowner who plans to ride out the storm. Andrew Kozak has the forecast.
Heavy rain turns roads to rivers in Los Angeles
The Christmas Eve drive was anything but a holiday gift for many across Los Angeles as heavy rain turned roads into rivers in some areas. At LAX, the last-minute dash to make it home before Christmas had flyers lining up early hoping the storm didn't keep them grounded. Kris Van Cleave reports.