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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Extended interview: Steve Guttenberg
In this web exclusive, actor Steve Guttenberg ("Police Academy," "Cocoon," "Three Men and a Baby") talks with "Sunday Morning" contributor Lisa Ling about his relationship with his late father (whom he called his "anchor") and his support as Steve built up a Hollywood career, which he experienced as "a regular person living an extraordinary life." He also talks about being a caregiver to his father after his diagnosis of kidney failure.
Nature: Key deer in Florida
We leave you this Sunday morning roaming with Key Deer, at Big Pine Key in Florida. Videographer: Doug Jensen.
Douglas Brinkley on President Biden's legacy
Presidential historian Douglas Brinkley looks at the considerable, often heroic achievements of the administration of Joe Biden, and at the mistakes that may color historians' view of his presidency, as Donald Trump – a man Biden warned is a threat to democracy – re-enters the White House.
Trump ally: First 100 days will be "shock and awe"
President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House is the culmination of a political comeback that many in both parties believed would never happen. Now, Trump is promising swift action despite paper-thin GOP majorities in Congress. CBS News chief election & campaign correspondent Robert Costa talks with Republican Senator Jim Banks, a staunch Trump ally, and Independent Senator Bernie Sanders about what to expect in the second Trump administration.
Architectural losses from the L.A. wildfires
Thousands of structures were destroyed in the Los Angeles wildfires, including some architectural and historic landmarks. "Sunday Morning" looks at some of the treasures lost.
Steve Guttenberg on caring for a hero, and being one
As the Palisades Fire exploded, Steve Guttenberg, one of the biggest movie stars of the 1980s and '90s, was moving abandoned cars so emergency vehicles could get through. Six sleepless days later, and with much of his hometown reduced to ruins, he was still there to help protect his and his neighbors' homes. He spoke with CBS News contributor Lisa Ling about the importance of making a difference; and about caring for his late father, Stanley, whom he calls his "anchor," and whom he writes about in the book "Time to Thank: Caregiving for My Hero."
Climate scientist: "There's no place that's safe"
In 2022, climate scientist Peter Kalmus moved his family out of Altadena, California, to North Carolina, to a place he hoped would be "less fiery." His old house burned to the ground in last week's wildfires, while North Carolina suffered the effects of Hurricane Helene last fall. Kalmus tells correspondent Tracy Smith he hopes people are finally listening to warnings about climate change. Smith also talks with amateur meteorologist Edgar McGregor, who warned his fellow Altadena residents to get out as the flames approached; and with John Vaillant, author of "Fire Weather: On the Front Lines of a Burning World."
Perle Mesta, the renowned social queen of Washington
The widow of a steel magnate, socialite Perle Mesta used her fortune to host inclusive dinner parties in Washington, D.C., in the 1940s and '50s, becoming known as "The Hostess with the Mostes' on the Ball" (after Irving Berlin celebrated her in the musical, "Call Me Madam"). Mesta became one of the most famous women in the world, and her influence – on politics and on the social scene – is examined by Meryl Gordon in her new biography, "The Woman Who Knew Everyone." CBS News' Erin Moriarty talks with Gordon; with 99-year-old former journalist Marie Ridder, who attended some of Mesta's parties; and with Washington insider Sally Quinn, who doubts that any power broker today could pull off what Mesta once did so brilliantly: getting Democrats and Republicans to sit down at a dinner table and see eye-to-eye.
Passage: In memoriam
"Sunday Morning" remembers some of the notable figures who left us this week, including director David Lynch, the visionary behind "Blue Velvet," "Twin Peaks" and "Mulholland Drive"; and Milwaukee Brewers sportscaster and actor Bob Uecker.
Inside "Beyond the Gates," TV's newest soap opera
In the world of daytime network TV, only a handful of long-running soap operas have survived. But in February, CBS is launching a new one: "Beyond the Gates," which traces a prominent African American family living in a gated community outside of Washington, D.C. Correspondent Nancy Giles goes behind the scenes of the new series, and talks with the creatives and actors who say you've never seen a soap like this.
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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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.
Trump admin says it's halting offshore wind projects over security risk
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum said the agency is pausing leases for five offshore wind farms "due to national security concerns."
Plane makes emergency landing without pilot's help, in first use of "Autoland"
On Saturday, a plane landed at Colorado's Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport without a pilot's help.
Jim Beam to pause production at its main distillery on Jan. 1
The main distillery will be closed for site enhancements, the company said. The pause comes after whiskey production has dropped amid a challenging year.
Exclusive
DHS offers undocumented migrants $3,000 if they self-deport by end of 2025
The Department of Homeland Security has tripled its "exit bonus" offered to undocumented migrants who voluntarily leave the United States by Dec. 31, 2025.
MoneyWatch
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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.
Trump admin says it's halting offshore wind projects over security risk
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum said the agency is pausing leases for five offshore wind farms "due to national security concerns."
Jim Beam to pause production at its main distillery on Jan. 1
The main distillery will be closed for site enhancements, the company said. The pause comes after whiskey production has dropped amid a challenging year.
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.
Politics
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Trump admin says it's halting offshore wind projects over security risk
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum said the agency is pausing leases for five offshore wind farms "due to national security concerns."
Vance tries to unify conservatives as rifts exposed at Turning Point USA
Rifts over the direction of the conservative movement emerged during Turning Point USA's conference, as speakers attacked each other by name.
Exclusive
DHS offers undocumented migrants $3,000 if they self-deport by end of 2025
The Department of Homeland Security has tripled its "exit bonus" offered to undocumented migrants who voluntarily leave the United States by Dec. 31, 2025.
Denmark summoning U.S. ambassador after Trump names special envoy to Greenland
Denmark says it will summon the U.S. ambassador after President Trump appointed a special envoy to Greenland, the Danish autonomous territory he has often expressed interest in.
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.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
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.
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.
World
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Bondi Beach gunmen got firearms training together, police say
The man police say killed 15 people at Sydney's Bondi Beach along with his father obtained firearms training with him, documents show.
Denmark summoning U.S. ambassador after Trump names special envoy to Greenland
Denmark says it will summon the U.S. ambassador after President Trump appointed a special envoy to Greenland, the Danish autonomous territory he has often expressed interest in.
Russian general killed by bomb under his car in Moscow
A Russian general was killed when a bomb detonated under his car in Moscow and investigators said Ukraine could be behind the attack.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Video shows shoplifting suspect pulling gun
A video from an Ohio Walmart shows a shoplifting suspect pulling a gun on officers while being questioned in a security room. CBS News' Adriana Diaz reports.
Trump targets more Venezuelan oil tankers
The Trump administration seized a second oil tanker near Venezuela and announced a third is being pursued, a U.S. official tells CBS News. This comes as lawmakers react to the Justice Department's release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein. CBS News' Jarred Hill reports.
Search underway for swimmer missing at Pacific Grove's Lovers Point in possible shark attack
Search efforts are underway in Pacific Grove after a swimmer went missing Sunday afternoon.
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.
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.
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
Lawmakers react to Epstein files redactions
Some Republican and Democratic lawmakers are criticizing the Justice Department's latest release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein after more than 500 pages were entirely blacked out, CBS News has found. Jake Rosen has the latest.
Gun safety advocacy group offers new training
Everytown for Gun Safety rose to prominence after the Sandy Hook school shooting - campaigning to restrict gun sales and expand background checks. Now, it's offering a new firearms training program to take aim at safer gun ownership. The effort has divided some of the organization's supporters. Nicole Valdes reports.
Video shows shoplifting suspect pulling gun
A video from an Ohio Walmart shows a shoplifting suspect pulling a gun on officers while being questioned in a security room. CBS News' Adriana Diaz reports.
How to design your forever home
Mikel Welch, "The Drew Barrymore Show's" design expert, has designed for clients including Martha Stewart, former first lady Michelle Obama, Halle Berry and Tyler Perry. He speaks to "CBS Mornings" about his new book, "The Forever Home: Classic, Clever Design to Help You Put Down Roots" and how you can design your own space.
Where to get the latest CBS Mornings Deals
On this edition of CBS Mornings Deals, we show you items that might just become essentials in your everyday life. Visit cbsdeals.com to take advantage of these exclusive deals today. CBS earns commissions on purchases made through cbsdeals.com.