7/26: Sunday Morning
Hosted by Mo Rocca. Featured: Aging in rural America; compromises to food safety; supermodel and actress Lauren Hutton; singer Corinne Bailey Rae; artist Derrick Adams; worm grunting; and how plants are affected by touch.
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Extended interview: Angela Merkel
In this web exclusive, former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, author of "Freedom: Memoirs 1954-2021," talks with correspondent Mark Phillips about her childhood in East Germany, where she received care packages from family members in West Germany that, she said, "smelled like the West"; being warned about surveillance by the secret police, and avoiding political indoctrination; and her emotions when the Berlin Wall came down in 1989.
Angela Merkel on a world before and after the Berlin Wall
After growing up in the Communist-controlled police state of East Germany, Angela Merkel served as Chancellor of Germany for 16 years, becoming the most powerful woman in the world while dealing with its most powerful men. She talks with correspondent Mark Philips about her new book, "Freedom: Memoirs 1954-2021"; her relationships with former U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin; and about the state of the world since the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Selena Gomez: "I'm okay with where I am and who I am"
At 32, Selena Gomez is an accomplished actor (including in the new movie "Emilia Pérez"), successful singer-songwriter, billionaire business owner, and philanthropist. But her gutsiest move may have been sharing herself. She talks with correspondent Tracy Smith about her mother's inspiration; her relationship with Steve Martin and Martin Short, her co-stars in "Only Murders in the Building"; and why she went public with her health struggles and bipolar diagnosis in the documentary "My Mind and Me," saying, "One of the strongest things you can do is be vulnerable."
Jim Gaffigan on adjusting to the painful new reality
Comedian Jim Gaffigan says that he is working to adjust to recent events that have left him blindsided and wanting to curl up in a ball and mope. But he acknowledges that, while it's not what he wanted, the world continues to spin.
"The Barn": A murder in Mississippi
In his new book "The Barn," author Wright Thompson, also a fifth-generation Mississippi Delta cotton farmer, examines the site of the notorious 1955 murder of 14-year-old Emmett Till. Correspondent Jim Axelrod talks with Thompson about illuminating injustice and a Mississippi Delta culture that, Thompson says, has spent decades trying to erase a horrible crime; and visits the barn, which still stands, where Till was beaten to death.
Passage: In memoriam
"Sunday Morning" remembers some of the notable figures who left us this week, including Alice Brock, the Massachusetts restaurateur made famous by Arlo Guthrie's song, "Alice's Restaurant."
Elvis Duran on the magic of radio
Since 1996, New York City disc jockey Elvis Duran has hosted "Elvis Duran and the Morning Show," the country's most popular Top-40 morning program. He talks with correspondent Mo Rocca about growing up in Texas enamored with radio, becoming friends with "this voice in the dark"; how radio has changed over the years; and how being in Santa Fe, New Mexico, changes him.
A beloved Missouri school custodian's singular honor
When the people of Swedeborg, Missouri, decided to name their elementary school building, everyone knew it had to be named after someone truly special. Correspondent Steve Hartman talks with the woman who was the school board's unanimous choice for the honor.
Tom Colicchio on "Why I Cook"
It was in the chaos of a kitchen where chef, restaurateur and TV cooking judge Tom Colicchio learned how to be himself. The author of the new cookbook-memoir, "Why I Cook," talks with "CBS Mornings" co-host Tony Dokoupil about his journey from middle-class New Jersey to elite restaurants in New York and Las Vegas, and from the depths of drug abuse to the heights of fine dining.
Almanac: December 1
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.
More From Sunday Morning
Corinne Bailey Rae on the sadness of loss and the beauty of life
Twenty years after her single "Put Your Records On" made her an international star, the two-time Grammy-winner is embarking on a tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of her breakout debut album.
Artist Derrick Adams' depictions of Black joy
At 56, Derrick Adams is widely regarded as one of the most important artists of his generation, known for capturing the Black experience in vibrant, kaleidoscopic colors.
How Trump admin cuts have compromised food safety
Since May, more than 11,000 cases of illness caused by the parasite cyclospora have been reported in 41 states. This comes after the Trump administration drastically cut FDA and CDC staff, prompting one expert to call this summer's outbreaks "a national wake-up call."
Home, not alone: Helping aging seniors in rural America
Health risks associated with loneliness and social isolation are more common among the aging population of rural America. In North Dakota, the program Aging in Community aims to build connections among neighbors to help isolated rural seniors.
This week on "Sunday Morning" (July 26)
A look at the features for this week's broadcast of the Emmy-winning program, hosted by Jane Pauley.
Sam Smith and the "gentle revolution" of "My Guy"
Rolling Stone writer Barry Walters, author of the music history "Mighty Real," says the latest ballad by British singer Sam Smith is a step forward from LGBTQ love songs being marginalized.
Shania Twain on her "very long road" to getting it right
Throughout family hardships, divorce, and losing her voice to Lyme disease, Shania Twain became the top-selling female country artist of all time. She talks about her biographical new album, "Little Miss Twain," in which she reflects on her life with a smile.
Judge Ronald Gould on his MS: "Just take life a step at a time"
At 79, Ronald Gould, a federal judge on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in Seattle, shoulders a full caseload despite living with progressive multiple sclerosis – a condition he faces with grit and a healthy dose of humor.
Pitch perfect: Developing natural grass for the World Cup
FIFA rules state that World Cup matches must be played on natural grass. For this year's tournament, scientifically-engineered sod (that can withstand playing conditions and differing climates) was deployed in stadiums with artificial turf.
What's wrong with Congress?
Congress was granted many powers under Article I of the Constitution. Nonetheless, lawmakers have ceded much of their authority to the president – and Washington has been plagued by gridlock.
U.S.
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Comey claims DOJ conducted "illegal" surveillance in motion seeking to dismiss charges
Former FBI Director James Comey filed new motions late Tuesday in his effort to toss out federal charges accusing him of threatening President Trump's by posting a photo of seashells arranged to form the numbers "86 47."
American Airlines nationwide ground stop lifted after IT outage disrupts flights
According to the Air Traffic Control System Command Center, all airports and facilities were being impacted by the IT outage.
Florida executes 2 men in one day, including ex-cop who killed girl
Florida on Tuesday became the first state in nearly a decade to carry out two executions in a single day, putting to death an 80-year-old man who was the second-oldest inmate known to receive a lethal injection in modern U.S. history.
First on CBS
How Trump drafted renovation plans for Dulles, a "terrible airport"
President Trump asked for 3D models of the renovation proposals as he personally tweaked ideas to overhaul Dulles International Airport that are scheduled to be unveiled on Wednesday.
Canadian tourism slumped in the U.S. last year amid heightened tensions
Millions of Canadians shunned travel to the U.S. in 2025, opting to vacation at home or travel to other countries.
MoneyWatch
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Canadian tourism slumped in the U.S. last year amid heightened tensions
Millions of Canadians shunned travel to the U.S. in 2025, opting to vacation at home or travel to other countries.
Americans face higher back-to-school costs. Here's what's pricier.
U.S. households will spend roughly $4,000 per student on school supplies and lunches this year, a new analysis found.
Johnson & Johnson offers $5.5 billion to settle talc lawsuits
Johnson & Johnson has offered $5.5 billion to settle tens of thousands of lawsuits claiming its baby powder and other talcum powder products caused ovarian cancer, the company says.
Taylor Farms CEO pressed by lawmaker over cyclospora outbreak
Rep. Robert Garcia is seeking information about whether Taylor Farms used White House ties to influence the federal response to the foodborne illness outbreak.
Amazon plans to deploy more than 5,000 satellites for new telecom service
Amazon Leo wants to launch a constellation of thousands of satellites to connect devices directly from space.
Politics
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Comey claims DOJ conducted "illegal" surveillance in motion seeking to dismiss charges
Former FBI Director James Comey filed new motions late Tuesday in his effort to toss out federal charges accusing him of threatening President Trump's by posting a photo of seashells arranged to form the numbers "86 47."
U.S. and Saudi Arabia strike "Iran-aligned terrorists" in Iraq
The U.S. and Saudi militaries announced airstrikes late Tuesday on Iranian-backed groups in Iraq, after Iran and its proxies allegedly targeted American forces.
Trump policy clears way for civil commitment of homeless in some states
In the year since President Trump signed an executive order aimed at moving homeless people off the streets, states have expanded involuntary treatment for the homeless.
Senate confirms Jay Clayton as Trump's next intelligence chief
Clayton's confirmation as director of national intelligence could unlock gridlock over a key spy tool that lapsed last month.
First on CBS
How Trump drafted renovation plans for Dulles, a "terrible airport"
President Trump asked for 3D models of the renovation proposals as he personally tweaked ideas to overhaul Dulles International Airport that are scheduled to be unveiled on Wednesday.
HealthWatch
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What is postpartum psychosis, the disorder at the center of Lindsay Clancy's trial?
A key question in the Massachusetts murder trial of Lindsay Clancy is whether postpartum psychosis drove her to kill her three children.
William Shatner and daughter Melanie recall fighting Stage 4 cancer together
Actor William Shatner and his daughter, Melanie Shatner Gretsch, recall how they helped each other as they fought Stage 4 cancer side by side.
Carly Simon reveals Parkinson's diagnosis: "Learning how to live with it"
Carly Simon, the singer known for 1970s hits like "You're So Vain," announced she has Parkinson's disease and also was treated for basal cell carcinoma.
Cyclospora outbreak impact on eating habits
Amid the outbreak of cyclospora, a CBS News poll finds 40% of Americans say they are buying or eating less produce. Nearly half of those polled say they have little or no confidence in the FDA to deal with the outbreak. Carter Evans reports.
Cyclospora boosts fears that deadlier foodborne outbreaks are ahead
Food safety experts say cuts to the public health system hobbled the response — and that the next outbreak could be much worse.
World
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U.S. and Saudi Arabia strike "Iran-aligned terrorists" in Iraq
The U.S. and Saudi militaries announced airstrikes late Tuesday on Iranian-backed groups in Iraq, after Iran and its proxies allegedly targeted American forces.
Kenya investigates deaths of 15 elephants in Amboseli National Park
The Kenya Wildlife Service said 10 of the elephants showed signs of partial paralysis before dying within two days.
Trump meets with Zelenskyy and Netanyahu amid wars in Iran, Ukraine
President Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Tuesday.
Woman murdered in 1936 and buried under building is finally identified
Police have finally identified the remains of a woman murdered nearly a century ago and buried beneath a building in Toronto.
Widow of murdered mayor arrested in extortion case in Mexico
Valentin Lavin, who was allied with President Claudia Sheinbaum's leftist party, was shot and killed during a town hall.
Entertainment
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William Shatner and daughter Melanie recall fighting Stage 4 cancer together
Actor William Shatner and his daughter, Melanie Shatner Gretsch, recall how they helped each other as they fought Stage 4 cancer side by side.
William Shatner, daughter on cancer journeys
Legendary actor William Shatner and his daughter Melanie Shatner Gretsch are opening up about their battles with Stage 4 cancer nearly at the same time as each other. Both are now cancer-free and share how they helped each other through the challenging time.
Ariana Grande sues alleged hackers
In a new lawsuit, Ariana Grande alleges unidentified hackers caused "irreparable harm" to her career and stole her unreleased music, photos and videos. She's asking the court to force internet providers to identify them.
"The Odyssey" movie sparking interest in book
Moviegoers are turning out in droves for the IMAX spectacle "The Odyssey," but they're also flocking to something else: the 2,700-year-old source material. Matt Gutman has more.
Comedian Jeff Arcuri talks new special
Comedian Jeff Arcuri became a sensation on social media after more than a decade of performing at comedy clubs. He talks about his debut stand-up special, "Jeff Arcuri: Nice to Meet You," his comedy reaching new audiences and a time when crowd work didn't go as expected.
Technology
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Amazon plans to deploy more than 5,000 satellites for new telecom service
Amazon Leo wants to launch a constellation of thousands of satellites to connect devices directly from space.
Theaters score with themed popcorn buckets
Bradley Blackburn visits gets a taste of the custom popcorn buckets from movies like "The Odyssey" that are driving fans crazy.
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.
Brands cash in on AI influencers
A growing number of faces on your feeds are generated by artificial intelligence, and brands are buying in. Increasingly, these AI influencers are marketing products, often deceptively, to consumers. Shanelle Kaul has more.
Where to get the latest CBS Mornings Deals
On this edition of CBS Mornings Deals, we show you items that will help improve your everyday lifestyle. Visit cbsdeals.com to take advantage of these exclusive deals today. CBS earns commissions on purchases made through cbsdeals.com.
Science
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Science
How plants feel
Science shows us that, even though plants don't have brains, they seem to have a nervous system that responds to touch in remarkable ways. Robert Krulwich and puppeteer Barnaby Dixon explore the science of thigmomorphogenesis (the phenomenon of plants reacting to outside stimulae), a discussion that plants the seeds for a song.
Nearly 30 beluga whales sent to the U.S.
Nearly 30 beluga whales were sent to aquariums across the U.S. in a multinational emergency operation after their home aquarium in Canada shuttered. Jared Ochacher reports.
SpaceX launches first rocket since IPO
Elon Musk's aerospace company, SpaceX, launched its massive Starship rocket in its first test flight since the company went public. Since achieving the largest IPO in history, SpaceX's stock has dropped drastically. Mark Strassmann takes a look.
Wildfire smoke continues to shroud U.S.
Millions of people are enduring dangerous air quality as Canadian wildfire smoke shrouds the skies. Jonathan Overpeck, dean of the School for Environment and Sustainability at the University of Michigan, explains how climate change is worsening wildfires.
How AI data centers impact the environment
New York has become the first state to impose a temporary moratorium on data center development while state lawmakers lay the groundwork to assess environmental and social impacts. Dr. Mike Weinstein, the director of sustainability at Southern New Hampshire University, explains what we know about the wider environmental impact data centers.
Crime
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Crime
Georgia teen sentenced for school shooting
Sixteen-year-old Colt Gray was sentenced to life in prison on Tuesday for the 2024 shooting at Georgia's Apalachee High School which killed four people.
Colt Gray sentenced to life without parole
A judge on Tuesday sentenced Colt Gray to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Gray pleaded guilty to killing four people in the deadly 2024 shooting at Apalachee High School. CBS News correspondent Skyler Henry has the latest.
Apalachee High School shooter sentenced to life without parole
Colt Gray, the teenager who admitted to killing four people in the 2024 shooting at Apalachee High School, will spend the rest of his life in prison without parole.
Police seek third Seattle shooting suspect
Seattle police are hunting for a third suspect being linked to a deadly shooting at a food festival near the Space Needle. CBS News' Carter Evans reports.
What is postpartum psychosis, the disorder at the center of Lindsay Clancy's trial?
A key question in the Massachusetts murder trial of Lindsay Clancy is whether postpartum psychosis drove her to kill her three children.
Space
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Russian Soyuz brings three home after 8 months at space station
The Soyuz MS-28 landing in Kazakhstan brought a 241-day stay in space to a successful conclusion.
SpaceX's Super Heavy-Starship blasts off on 13th test flight
An upgraded version of the world's most powerful rocket is key to landing NASA astronauts on the moon in the agency's Artemis program.
Meteorite that hit home contains "alien world chemistry," experts say
When scientists examined the preserved fragments of a meteorite that crashed in 2024, they found brine-like fluids and key molecules.
Russian Soyuz rocket launches fresh crew to space station
The new crew will replace three other Soyuz fliers wrapping up a 240-day stay aboard the International Space Station.
Astronomers discover sugar in space that's also found in raspberries
The sugar, called erythrulose, lurks in what's called the interstellar medium: thin clouds of gas and dust littered between stars.
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Photos show celebrations at Obama Presidential Center
The Obama Presidential Center, museum and library opens in Chicago with a star-studded grand opening ceremony and public watch party on Midway Plaisance.
Summer music highlights of 2026
Summer is the time to enjoy live music, indoors and out. Scroll through our gallery of some of 2026's leading musical acts, featuring images by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
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?
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Examining legality of Fauci diaries release
Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky has released some of Dr. Anthony Fauci's pandemic-era diary entries ahead of the former National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases director's Senate hearing on Wednesday. CBS News legal contributor Jessica Levinson breaks down the subpoena power behind the release.
Analyzing Trump's Netanyahu, Zelenskyy meetings
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu both met with President Trump separately at the White House on Tuesday. Former Clinton and Obama National Security Council member Charles Kupchan joins with analysis.
Tornado tears through central Wisconsin
Trees and power lines collapsed around cars as a tornado with winds of 140 miles per hour tore through central Wisconsin on Monday. The National Weather Service found a 12-mile-long swath of damage. Jason Allen reports.
Back-to-school shopping costs on the rise
New research from Groundwork Collaborative and the Century Foundation shows that U.S. parents can expect to spend close to $4,000 more per child on school supplies this year. CBS News' Megan Cerullo has the story.
New report on weather threats to homeowners
Jeremy Porter, chief economist at First Street, joins "The Daily Report" to discuss new research from his firm showing that severe convective storms that bring tornadoes, hail, and wind pose a bigger risk to homeowners than hurricanes.