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.
Latest Videos
Latest Videos
At stake on Election Day: The reality of the presidency
Each president faces tremendous challenges upon taking the oath of office. CBS News' John Dickerson says, in addition to the knowns and unknowns of leading our country in an uncertain world, the contest between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump presents them each with a unique test before Inauguration Day: how they manage victory, or defeat.
Campaign 2024, just for laughs
It's almost over! "Sunday Morning" Jane Pauley looks back at how TV's comics and late-night hosts have viewed the 2024 presidential election.
The captivating charm of Kieran Culkin
He was a former child actor who graduated to an Emmy-winning performance as Roman Roy, the filterless, fast-talking middle child scheming to inherit a media empire, in "Succession." Now, the charm of Kieran Culkin is front-and-center, playing a rudderless man-child in the poignant comedy "A Real Pain." He talks with correspondent Mo Rocca about growing into his career; what he learned about fame from the celebrity of his brother, actor Macaulay Culkin; and the surprising thing he dislikes about being a dad.
Taking a kinder, gentler tone against the rudeness of politics
Civility has been absent from much of this presidential campaign. And at times, it can seem like the rudeness of our politics has infected our personal interactions as well. CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jonathan LaPook suggests a path away from meanness.
What Colonial Williamsburg may teach us about politics today
The living history museum of Colonial Williamsburg, in Williamsburg, Virginia, offers an enlightening portrait of life in Revolutionary-era America, while providing a vivid contrast to today's political and social conflicts. "Sunday Morning" senior contributor Ted Koppel goes in search of lessons from Thomas Jefferson, George and Martha Washington, and James Lafayette (an enslaved man who spied on the British for the Continental Army), to discover what the future may learn from the past.
Passage: In memoriam
"Sunday Morning" remembers some of the notable figures who left us this week, including actress Teri Garr, star of such classics as "Young Frankenstein" and "Tootsie."
"Yellowstone" cast members attend cowboy boot camp
Taylor Sheridan, the creative force behind the Paramount series "Yellowstone," demands authenticity from his actors, who attend a "cowboy boot camp," at Sheridan's ranch outside Dallas, to learn how to properly ride a horse or rope cattle. Correspondent Lee Cowan talks with Cole Hauser, Luke Grimes, Jennifer Landon, Ethan Lee, and cowboy-turned-actor Jake Ream about gaining a better understanding of the joy and poetry to be found between horse and human.
The crisis in Venezuela
Venezuela's authoritarian president Nicolás Maduro claimed victory in the country's July election despite evidence he lost in a landslide. In the ensuing chaos, two dozen people have been killed and 2,000 detained. A quarter of Venezuela's population had already fled the country's economic devastation and political repression, and the election has only made matters worse. Correspondent Martha Teichner looks at how the oil-rich country fell into crisis, and talks with opposition leader-in-hiding María Corina Machado; and journalist William Neuman, author of "Things Are Never So Bad That They Can't Get Worse: Inside the Collapse of Venezuela."
Almanac: November 3
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.
Stagecraft and the power of political photographs
With the invention of photography came a new way to view, mythologize and remember the nation's presidents. CBS News chief election & campaign correspondent Robert Costa talks with Washington Post critic Philip Kennicott about how photographs capture the power of the presidency, the combativeness of campaigns, and the heavy burdens of the highest office.
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.
More U.S.
Consumer confidence continues to fade despite heady economic growth
Concerns about inflation, tariffs and politics weighed on consumer sentiment in December, The Conference Board said.
Former GOP Sen. Ben Sasse says he has stage-four pancreatic cancer
Republican Ben Sasse represented Nebraska in the U.S. Senate from 2015 to 2023, then became president of the University of Florida.
Rob and Michele Reiner's children release new statement on memorial plans
The children of slain filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, have released another statement in the wake of their parents' deaths.
U.S. GDP grew at a blistering 4.3% pace in the third quarter
Economic growth blew past forecasts in the third quarter despite ongoing concerns about jobs, tariffs and inflation.
Aubrey O'Day opens up about disturbing Sean "Diddy" Combs affidavit
Aubrey O'Day discusses the disturbing witness affidavit involving Sean "Diddy" Combs in a "CBS Mornings" interview on Tuesday.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Consumer confidence continues to fade despite heady economic growth
Concerns about inflation, tariffs and politics weighed on consumer sentiment in December, The Conference Board said.
U.S. GDP grew at a blistering 4.3% pace in the third quarter
Economic growth blew past forecasts in the third quarter despite ongoing concerns about jobs, tariffs and inflation.
FCC banning new foreign-made drones, a move China calls "discriminatory"
The Federal Communications Commission says it's banning new foreign-made drones, a move that will keep new Chinese-made drones out of the U.S. market.
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.
Politics
More Politics
Former GOP Sen. Ben Sasse says he has stage-four pancreatic cancer
Republican Ben Sasse represented Nebraska in the U.S. Senate from 2015 to 2023, then became president of the University of Florida.
FCC banning new foreign-made drones, a move China calls "discriminatory"
The Federal Communications Commission says it's banning new foreign-made drones, a move that will keep new Chinese-made drones out of the U.S. market.
How to watch the Kennedy Center Honors tonight on CBS and Paramount+
The 2025 Kennedy Center Honors will be broadcast tonight, Dec. 23, celebrating George Strait, Gloria Gaynor, Kiss, Michael Crawford and Sylvester Stallone.
Exclusive
Trump administration seeks to cancel thousands of asylum cases
ICE has filed more than 8,000 requests to toss out asylum claims in immigration court, asking judges to send immigrants to third-party countries.
George Conway files paperwork to run for Congress as Democrat
George Conway, a conservative lawyer turned vocal critic of President Trump, has filed paperwork for a bid to represent New York City in the House.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
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
More World
Louvre adds security bars to window used by jewel thieves
Maintenance workers secured metal bars over the window thieves used to break into the Louvre in October.
Major pre-Christmas Russian attack on Ukraine kills at least 3
Russia fired more than 650 drones and three dozen missiles at Ukraine in a major pre-Christmas attack, killing at least three people including a child.
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.
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.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
Entertainment
A look at "The Artist" murder mystery series
Actor Mandy Patinkin and writer and director Aram Rappaport are behind the new murder mystery series, "The Artist," which is a work of historical fiction set in the Gilded Age. They speak to "CBS Mornings" about the series and how it got started. Patinkin also reflects on the life of Hollywood icon Rob Reiner.
Aubrey O'Day opens up about disturbing Sean "Diddy" Combs affidavit
Aubrey O'Day discusses the disturbing witness affidavit involving Sean "Diddy" Combs in a "CBS Mornings" interview on Tuesday.
How to watch the Kennedy Center Honors tonight on CBS and Paramount+
The 2025 Kennedy Center Honors will be broadcast tonight, Dec. 23, celebrating George Strait, Gloria Gaynor, Kiss, Michael Crawford and Sylvester Stallone.
"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.
Technology
More Technology
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
More Science
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
More Crime
Crime
New trove of Epstein files released
The DOJ released more than 10,000 files in the Jeffrey Epstein case. The release includes court records, emails, news clippings, photos, spreadsheets, audio and video files. It also offers new details on Epstein's associates, including President Trump. Mr. Trump has not been charged in connection with Epstein and the new documents do not accuse him of any crime. Scott MacFarlane has more.
DOJ releases 10,000 new Epstein files
The Justice Department released more than 10,000 files relating to Jeffrey Epstein early Tuesday morning. CBS News' Scott MacFarlane has more details.
DOJ releases more Epstein files
The Department of Justice has released another batch of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. CBS News' Scott MacFarlane reports.
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.
Space
More Space
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.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
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.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
FDA approves Wegovy pill for weight loss
The FDA has approved the pill version of the weight loss drug Wegovy, the first oral medication of its kind. The new pills are expected to be available in a few weeks. Chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook has more.
White House seeks to cancel asylum cases
The Trump administration is attempting to cancel thousands of asylum cases and deport applicants to third-party countries, CBS News reporting shows. Immigration reporter Camilo Montoya-Galvez has the latest.
Powerball jackpot reaches whopping $1.7 billion
The Powerball jackpot grew to more than $1.7 billion after no winning tickets from Monday's drawing. CBS News' Tom Hanson has more details.
Russia strikes Ukraine, Zelenskyy says
Russia slammed Ukraine overnight with deadly drone strikes, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. CBS News' Ramy Inocencio has the latest.
What the 4.3% GDP increase shows
Gross domestic product grew 4.3% in the third quarter of 2025, indicating some small economic growth despite concerns over tariffs and inflation. CBS News contributor Javier David has more details.