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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The Book Report: Washington Post critic Ron Charles (March 9)
The "Sunday Morning" book reviewer offers his picks from this month's new fiction and non-fiction titles, including novels by Eric Puchner, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Karen Russell.
From the archives: Living near Three Mile Island
In 1980, one year after the partial meltdown at the Three Mile Island Nuclear Generating Station in Pennsylvania, citizens at a town hall protested plans to release radioactive krypton gas still trapped in a containment building. In this "Sunday Morning" report that originally aired March 30, 1980, correspondent Richard Wagner talked with nearby residents about the uncertainty, anxiety, anger and sense of loss they experienced in their lives following the accident, as well as distrust with the government and utility officials over the future of the plant. [The remaining working reactor at Three Mile Island was shut down in 2019. There are plans to bring it back online in three years.]
Nature: Hollywood Hills
We leave you this Oscar Sunday ... where else? ... in the Hills of Hollywood. Videographer: Brad Markel.
Josh Seftel's mom on the Oscars
Filmmaker and "Sunday Morning" contributor Josh Seftel asks his mother, Pat, about this year's Academy Award contenders and the joy of going to the movies.
Warren Buffett on legendary Washington Post publisher Katharine Graham
Katharine Graham's journey from housewife, to Washington Post publisher, to the first female CEO of a Fortune 500 company, is told in a new documentary, "Becoming Katharine Graham." CBS News' Senior Correspondent Norah O'Donnell talks with one of Graham's closest friends, investor Warren Buffett, about the woman who became a pivotal figure in Washington politics through her newspaper's landmark reporting.
Trump and Zelenskyy at a crossroads over Russia
In the wake of Friday's unprecedented, seemingly made-for-TV Oval Office exchange among President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymir Zelenskyy, America's alliance with Ukraine as Zelenskyy defends his nation against Russia appears ruptured. "Sunday Morning" national correspondent Robert Costa talks with Matthew Continetti (author of "The Right: The Hundred-Year War for American Conservatism") about the way many on the American right view Russia today, and what Trump's tactics might spell for the prospect of peace.
Creating the languages of other worlds
When Hollywood needs a language that doesn't exist (like Chakobsa, for the desert planet Arrakis in "Dune," or the Dothraki language from "Game of Thrones"), they call language nerds David and Jessie Peterson. Correspondent David Pogue looks at the craft that is a form of linguistic alchemy, and what goes into preparing actors like Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya to recite constructed languages (also known as conlangs).
Remembering Gene Hackman
Actor Gene Hackman, who appeared in more than 70 films and won two Academy Awards (for "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven"), was found dead at his home near Santa Fe, N.M. this week. He was 95. Correspondent Mo Rocca looks back on Hackman's brilliant career, and talks with Brad Dourif (Hackman's co-star in "Mississippi Burning") and Hollywood Reporter chief film critic David Rooney about a star who refused to be typecast.
Extended interview: Geoffrey Rush and John Lithgow
Two of our most celebrated stage and screen actors, Geoffrey Rush and John Lithgow, are starring in a new horror film, "The Rule of Jenny Pen," about a psychopath who terrorizes his fellow nursing home residents with a sinister doll puppet. In this extended conversation, correspondent Tracy Smith talks with Rush and Lithgow about the theatrical, and horrific, aspects of their film; what it was like to be the youngest members of their cast; and the family life of actors.
John Lithgow and Geoffrey Rush talk horror in "The Rule of Jenny Pen"
Many actors have launched their careers in horror movies. But two of our most established and acclaimed stars, John Lithgow and Geoffrey Rush (who have an Oscar, three Tonys, seven Emmys and four Golden Globes between them), are now headlining a low-budget horror film: "The Rule of Jenny Pen," in which a psychopath terrorizes his fellow nursing home residents with a sinister doll puppet. Correspondent Tracy Smith talks with them about playing once-in-a-lifetime characters; aging into their roles; and when awards season "doesn't make sense."
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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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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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.
Measles outbreaks worsen in South Carolina, Arizona and Utah
Nationally, the measles case count is nearing 2,000 for a disease that has been considered eliminated in the U.S. since 2000, a result of routine childhood vaccinations.
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
More Technology
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
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Getting ready for the U.S. Semiquincentennial
The upcoming celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence is a time to take stock and see if the U.S. is living up to the revolutionary ideals the country was founded upon.
Everest climbs put Sherpa guides at risk
Sherpas navigate extreme conditions and treacherous pathways as they act as porters and guides for climbers summiting Everest. They put their lives on the line, often with little recognition.
The Kanneh-Masons: Meet the musical siblings
The Kanneh-Mason family boasts seven classically trained musicians, each under the age of 30. The siblings have toured the world and recorded chart-topping albums.
What it takes to film on Mount Everest
Correspondent Cecilia Vega, producer Jacqueline Williams and a crew physically trained for months to reach Everest Base Camp. Vega said their ascent was, "the hardest thing I've ever done physically."
Face the Nation: Hassett, Russell, Coakley
Missed the second half of the show? White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell and Archbishop Paul S. Coakley join.