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 evolving "Wild West" of political advertising
Since the Supreme Court's Citizens United decision and the rise in social media, the ways in which politicians and campaign issues are advertised has exploded, with front groups and hidden funders reaching potential voters on their phones, targeted directly to somebody's likes and dislikes. Correspondent David Pogue talks with media experts about why negative ads often win out over positive ones, even as people are down on negativity. He also talks with an independent voter in a battleground state – one of the most desirable targets of this election cycle.
From the archives: Teri Garr on living with MS
Oscar-nominated actress Teri Garr, best known for her comic turns in "Young Frankenstein" and "Tootsie," died on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at age 79. In this "Sunday Morning" profile originally broadcast on December 4, 2005, Garr talked with correspondent Rita Braver about her autobiography, "Speedbumps"; how she advanced from dancing in the background of Elvis Presley movies to starring roles (she was, admittedly, up-front about lying on her resume); and how it became harder for her to find acting jobs following a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
Nature: Howler monkeys in Belize
We leave you this Sunday with howler monkeys in Belize. Videographer: Lance Milbrand.
Stevie Nicks on speaking out
Stevie Nicks became a superstar as lead singer and songwriter for the '70s band Fleetwood Mac, and a platinum-selling solo artist. She talks with correspondent Tracy Smith about composing her latest song, "The Lighthouse," that was inspired by her own experience with abortion, and a strong desire to "do something" following the Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade. She also discusses the loss of her bandmate Christine McVie in 2022, and how she continues to pay tribute to her.
Clemson frat opens its arms to student with special needs
At Clemson University in South Carolina, the ClemsonLIFE program gives students with intellectual disabilities a chance to learn life skills for independent living. One student, Charlie McGee, a young man with Down syndrome, wanted the whole college experience, including joining a fraternity. Correspondent Steve Hartman reports on what McGee, and the members of Phi Kappa Alpha, learned after McGee was welcomed into the brotherhood.
One Texas border town's split identity
Most of the 30,000 residents of the border town of Eagle Pass, Texas, are of Latino or Mexican descent, and are proud of the town's bi-national, bi-cultural, bi-lingual traditions. But the city has also become a flashpoint in the national conversation about immigration. Correspondent Lee Cowan talks with locals who have seen their town become a draw for migrants, politicians, and Texas National Guard.
Ralph Fiennes on the provocation of acting
Oscar-nominated actor Ralph Fiennes is returning in two new acclaimed films. In "Conclave," about the intrigue of papal politics, he plays a Vatican insider who oversees a gathering of cardinals who must elect a new pope. In "The Return," Fiennes – reunited with his "English Patient" costar Juliette Binoche – plays Odysseus, who has returned home following the Trojan War. Fiennes talks with correspondent Martha Teichner about the draw of playing characters with contradictions, and the thrill of finding a new role.
Master of mazes
British designer Adrian Fisher has created hundreds of mazes around the world – works of art that tantalize and confound those who try to navigate through hedgerows, corn stalks, yew trees, or lights. Correspondent Seth Doane gets lost in our fascination with puzzling mazes, and sets out to complete Fisher's monumental maze on the grounds of Leeds Castle in Kent, England, where there is no Google Maps to help you find your way out.
Ken Burns on the genius of Leonardo da Vinci
Acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns, renowned for his documentaries on such topics as the Civil War, baseball, jazz and the Statue of Liberty, has now focused on 15th century Italian artist and intellectual Leonardo da Vinci. Correspondent David Pogue talks with Burns and his producing partners, daughter Sarah Burns and son-in-law David McMahon, about their PBS documentary on the man Burns calls "one of the most incredibly interesting human beings who has ever walked the Earth."
Almanac: October 27
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.
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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.
U.S.
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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
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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
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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
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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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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
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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
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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
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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 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
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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.
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.
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Latest CBS News Videos
Note to Self: Hunter Woodhall
In the "CBS Mornings" series "Note to Self," Paralympic medalist Hunter Woodhall reflects on the challenges he's faced in life and his journey of perseverance.
Former Sen. Ben Sasse says he has cancer
Former Republican Sen. Ben Sasse announced Tuesday that he has terminal stage-four pancreatic cancer.
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.