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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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.
Ted Turner's nature preserves: A carefully curated "Heaven on Earth"
As one of the largest landholders in America, media mogul and philanthropist Ted Turner has over decades restored struggling species like the American Bison and rebuilt biodiversity on his two million acres. Now, Turner is opening some of his land to visitors, creating almost overnight what amounts to a private national park system. Correspondent Lee Cowan reports.
Nature: Turkeys in South Dakota
We leave you this Sunday with some VERY happy turkeys, at South Dakota's Good Earth State Park. Videographer: Kevin Kjergaard.
What makes a martini a martini?
There are very few American inventions more American than the martini – a classic cocktail of gin and vermouth, garnished with lemon. But today, a martini's ingredients may be up for debate, with variations and proportions skewed to personal taste. "Sunday Morning" contributor Kelefa Sanneh looks at the history of the martini, with a twist.
Rediscovering the Baked Alaska
Few desserts are so shrouded in mystery as the enigmatic Baked Alaska. While it's thought people were eating baked ice cream dishes in the 19th century, the recipe for the dish that would become known as Baked Alaska was first published in 1894. Correspondent Luke Burbank looks at why this classic, paradoxical dessert that melds heat with frozen sweets continues to captivate.
An Italian masterpiece: Cacio e pepe
A centuries-old pasta dish made with pecorino romano cheese and cracked pepper is a tradition in Italy, but getting it right is tricky even for the most experienced of chefs. Correspondent Seth Doane talks with Gabriele Giura, head chef at the famed Roman restaurant Roscioli, about preparing this simple but wondrous dish.
Serving up home-cooked dog food
Commercially-produced pet food is a $50 billion a year industry. But some advocate for healthier meals for your beloved pets. Correspondent Nancy Giles visits Just Food for Dogs, in Hollywood, Calif, which sells delicious canine fare that is also USDA-approved for human consumption; and with pet nutritionist Christine Filardi, author of "Home Cooking For Your Dog." Bone Appétit!
Mick Fleetwood plays to the future in Maui
As a young man, Fleetwood Mac founder Mick Fleetwood dreamed of a place – a club – where he could get his friends together. Twelve years ago, he made it happen in the west Maui city of Lahaina: Fleetwood's on Front Street. But last year's horrific wildfires turned Lahaina into a disaster zone, and destroyed his treasured club. Today, Fleetwood says he's determined to rebuild. Correspondent Tracy Smith reports.
In praise of Seattle-style teriyaki
Seattle has more teriyaki shops per capita than any other metropolis in America. Correspondent Luke Burbank talks with the man whose 1976 restaurant, Toshi's Teriyaki Grill, began it all.
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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.
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Justice Department releases huge new set of Epstein files
The Justice Department early Tuesday released tens of thousands of additional documents from the Jeffrey Epstein files, unveiling the latest group of records under a new law.
Powerball Christmas Eve jackpot will be estimated $1.7 billion
Santa might have a gigantic present in his bag on Christmas Eve, when the estimated jackpot for that night's drawing will be an estimated $1.7 billion.
At least 5 people killed in Mexican navy plane crash near Galveston, Texas
A small Mexican navy plane on a medical mission crashed Monday near Galveston, Texas, killing at least five people.
RFK Jr. says he'll work with agencies to wind down animal testing
Animal rights groups celebrate, but the Trump administration is light on specifics about phasing out federally funded medical testing on animals.
Everytown for Gun Safety stirs controversy with move into firearms training
When the advocacy group Everytown for Gun Safety announced it would introduce a new array of firearms training classes, it caught some longtime supporters off guard.
MoneyWatch
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Mercedes-Benz to pay nearly $150 million to settle states' emissions allegations
Mercedes-Benz USA and parent company Daimler AG agreed to settle allegations the automaker secretly installed devices in hundreds of thousands of vehicles to pass emission tests.
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.
What's behind the surge in gold and silver prices?
Analysts point to rising geopolitical tensions and softer monetary policy as driving the year-end surge.
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.
Politics
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Live
Justice Department releases huge new set of Epstein files
The Justice Department early Tuesday released tens of thousands of additional documents from the Jeffrey Epstein files, unveiling the latest group of records under a new law.
U.S. military hits alleged "low-profile" drug vessel in Pacific, killing 1
The U.S. military says it struck a vessel that was allegedly carrying drugs in the eastern Pacific on Monday, killing one person — part of a months-long campaign of boat strikes near Latin America.
Trump calls release of photos of people in Epstein files "a terrible thing"
President Trump has responded to the release of the Epstein files, saying Monday that the release of photos risked ensnaring "highly respected" people with no connection to Epstein's crimes.
Judge orders plan to return ex-CECOT detainees to U.S. or give them hearings
A federal judge gave the Trump administration two weeks to submit a plan to either return a group of men previously held at a notorious Salvadoran prison to the U.S., or give them a hearing to contest allegations of gang membership.
Blumenthal seeks details on White House ballroom from architect, dinner attendees
Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal is pushing for more information on a White House ballroom project championed by President Trump, sending letters to the project's architect and some fundraising dinner attendees.
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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British man charged with repeatedly drugging and raping his now ex-wife
Philip Young was charged with 56 sexual offences, including multiple counts of rape and administering a substance with the intent to "stupefy" Joanne Young, his ex-wife.
Banksy unveils new art in London
The elusive street artist posted two photos of an artwork on his official Instagram account amid speculation that he was behind it. An identical image appeared elsewhere.
Chris Rea, British singer of "Driving Home for Christmas," dies at 74
Chris Rea found fame in the 1980s in Britain with hits such as "Fool (If You Think It's Over)" and "Let's Dance."
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.
Entertainment
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"Call of Duty" co-creator Vince Zampella dies after crash on Los Angeles highway
Vince Zampella, a video game developer known for pioneering iconic franchises like "Call of Duty," died in a car crash on the Angeles Crest Highway in Los Angeles County on Sunday afternoon.
Barry Manilow reveals lung cancer diagnosis, cancels concerts due to surgery
The singer said an MRI showed a cancerous spot on one of his lungs after he recovered from a lengthy bout of bronchitis.
Chris Rea, British singer of "Driving Home for Christmas," dies at 74
Chris Rea found fame in the 1980s in Britain with hits such as "Fool (If You Think It's Over)" and "Let's Dance."
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.
Technology
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Technology
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.
Top tech gadgets of 2025
Timothy Werth, a tech editor at Mashable, joins "CBS News 24/7" to discuss the best gadgets of 2025.
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.
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.
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
New details about suspected Bondi Beach gunmen
Australian police released new documents Monday showing the father and son who are accused of killing 15 people at Bondi Beach undergoing firearms training just weeks before the attack. CBS News' Anna Schecter reports.
DOJ's Epstein files redactions draw criticism
The Justice Department is under scrutiny for heavily redacting the initial batches of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. CBS News justice correspondent Scott MacFarlane has the details.
British man charged with repeatedly drugging and raping his now ex-wife
Philip Young was charged with 56 sexual offences, including multiple counts of rape and administering a substance with the intent to "stupefy" Joanne Young, his ex-wife.
Former classmate on Brown shooting suspect
More details are emerging about Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, the man suspected of carrying out a deadly shooting at Brown University before allegedly targeting an MIT professor. CBS News Boston has more.
Lates on Epstein files released
At least a dozen files initially released by the Justice Department by the Dec. 19 deadline were removed from the website, CBS News has found. CBS News' Scott MacFarlane reports.
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
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Sneak peek: Mystery on County Road M
ENCORE: Todd Kendhammer says his wife was killed in an accident — a pipe flew off a truck and crashed into their car. Authorities say the scene was staged. "48 Hours" correspondent Erin Moriarty reports Saturday, Dec. 27 at 10/9c on CBS and streaming on Paramount+.
Partial release of Epstein files draws backlash
The Justice Department released more of its files on convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein over the weekend. But the partial release, full of redactions, came after a deadline Congress set for releasing all of the files. Scott MacFarlane has the latest.
Carolers bring Christmas past to life for families
This time of year, dozens of familiar songs end up on our playlists or they're often heard over the radio. But if you're lucky, you can hear them performed live -- by carolers. Jericka Duncan has the story.
Family awaits news after fishermen vanish
The family of 57-year-old Randall Spivey and his nephew, 33-year-old Brandon Billmaier, are praying for answers after the two experienced fishermen were reported missing. The two set sail from Fort Myers, Florida, and never came home. Cristian Benavides reports.
"60 Minutes" postpones report on CECOT
CBS News postponed a "60 Minutes" report about the Trump administration's decision to send Venezuelans and others it says entered the U.S. illegally to a notorious prison in El Salvador. Veteran "60 Minutes" correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi said in an internal email to colleagues that the story was "factually correct," but CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss said in a statement that holding stories that "lack sufficient context" or are "missing critical voices happens every day in every newsroom," and she looks "forward to airing this important piece when it's ready."