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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Pharrell Williams on "Piece by Piece" and his love of joy
Pharrell Williams, a self-described misfit who grew up in Virginia Beach, Va., saw and heard the world differently than most people. He has built a fascinating career as a musician, performer, and now creative director for Louis Vuitton Men. He talked with "Sunday Morning" contributor Kelefa Sanneh about the joy he finds in creativity, and about his new movie, "Piece by Piece," an animated film that depicts Williams and all other characters as Lego pieces.
One year after October 7 attacks, anger and anguish persist
On October 7, 2023, hundreds of Israelis were killed or taken hostage by Hamas terrorists in the deadliest attack on Jewish people since the Holocaust. Israel retaliated by launching strikes on the Gaza Strip, killing more than 40,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health authority. Correspondent Elizabeth Palmer reports on how, twelve months later, a cease-fire, or a pathway to peace, looks vanishingly remote. Editor's Note: This story has been updated to correct the number of Israeli hostages released in November, 2023.
Broadway's "Left on Tenth": Cancer and second chances
Writer Delia Ephron, famous for dreaming up fairy-tale rom-coms like "You've Got Mail," is making her Broadway debut this month with "Left on Tenth," a play adapted from her bestselling memoir about a widow pursuing another chance at love, just when she is diagnosed with leukemia. CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook talks with Ephron, director Susan Stroman, and stars Julianna Margulies and Peter Gallagher about the play's life lessons.
A young autistic man's symphonic odyssey
Twenty-year-old Jacob Rock is a non-verbal young man with autism who quietly composed an entire six-movement symphony in his head. After struggling to communicate for much of his life, he learned how to share his ideas via an iPad app with musician Rob Laufer. The two created the symphony "Unforgettable Sunrise," which was premiered last year by a 55-piece orchestra from the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music. Correspondent Lee Cowan talked with Rock and Laufer, and with Jacob's father, Paul, about a remarkable musical odyssey.
Almanac: October 6
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.
Election officials on threats to your right to vote
Just weeks before the presidential election, new rules are going into effect that can jeopardize people's right to vote, from challenges to voter registrations, to limits on when and how ballots may be cast. CBS News chief election & campaign correspondent Robert Costa talks with officials in Georgia, including Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, about conducting a free and fair election under duress while combating false accusations of election fraud.
Nature: Sunflowers in South Dakota
We leave you this Sunday morning among sunflowers in Highmore, South Dakota. Videographer: Kevin Kjergaard.
The high stakes & low blows of vice presidential debates
On Tuesday, the Democratic and Republican nominees for vice president will face each other in their first and only debate. Historian Kate Andersen Brower says that, even though Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Ohio Senator JD Vance both hail from the heartland, viewers should not expect "Midwestern Nice" to play out between the two. CBS News chief election & campaign correspondent Robert Costa looks at the history of VP debates. [CBS News will host the only planned vice presidential debate between Governor Tim Walz and Senator JD Vance on Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 9 p.m. ET on CBS and CBS News 24/7. Download the free CBS News app for live coverage, post-debate analysis, comprehensive fact checks and more.]
Malcolm Gladwell on "Revenge of the Tipping Point"
Bestselling author Malcolm Gladwell's latest, "Revenge of the Tipping Point," builds on a familiar idea from his books: You may think you know how the world works, but you're wrong! The provocative Gladwell talks with correspondent David Pogue about why he's refused to change his approach, his work ethic, or his contrarianism.
Coldplay on their record-breaking world tour
Twenty-five years after their first hit record, Coldplay's current world tour, which Billboard calls "the biggest rock tour of all time," has earned more than a billion dollars and sold more than 10 million tickets. During a stop in Dublin, correspondent Anthony Mason catches up with Chris Martin, Will Champion, Guy Berryman and Jonny Buckland to talk about "Moon Music" (the band's tenth studio album), the songwriting process, and their future playing together.
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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D.C. National Guard shooting suspect facing 5 additional federal charges
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, is accused of fatally shooting Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom and wounding Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe.
Student loan borrowers in default could see wages garnished in 2026
The Education Department signaled earlier this year that it would move to resume wage garnishment, among other forms of involuntary collection, for those in default.
Supreme Court says Trump can't deploy National Guard to Chicago for now
President Trump invoked a law called Title 10 to bring members of the Illinois National Guard under federal service over the objections of state and local leaders.
Even store Santas are struggling to find a job these days
Job listings for store Santas have plunged in recent years as more families shop online and retailers look to contain costs, a new analysis found.
Taylor Swift donates $1 million to Feeding America, group says
Feeding America's CEO said the organization is "incredibly grateful" for Taylor Swift's large donation.
MoneyWatch
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Student loan borrowers in default could see wages garnished in 2026
The Education Department signaled earlier this year that it would move to resume wage garnishment, among other forms of involuntary collection, for those in default.
Even store Santas are struggling to find a job these days
Job listings for store Santas have plunged in recent years as more families shop online and retailers look to contain costs, a new analysis found.
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.
Politics
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Student loan borrowers in default could see wages garnished in 2026
The Education Department signaled earlier this year that it would move to resume wage garnishment, among other forms of involuntary collection, for those in default.
Supreme Court says Trump can't deploy National Guard to Chicago for now
President Trump invoked a law called Title 10 to bring members of the Illinois National Guard under federal service over the objections of state and local leaders.
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.
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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Taylor Swift donates $1 million to Feeding America, group says
Feeding America's CEO said the organization is "incredibly grateful" for Taylor Swift's large donation.
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.
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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D.C. National Guard shooting suspect facing 5 additional federal charges
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, is accused of fatally shooting Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom and wounding Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe.
Officials: Melodee Buzzard's body recovered
California authorities announced Tuesday they have found the body of 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard and arrested her mother for murder. See the full news conference.
Delaware state trooper killed in DMV shooting
A Delaware state trooper was killed Tuesday during a shooting at a Wilmington DMV, the Delaware State Police said. The state's governor confirmed the shooter is also dead.
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.
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.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
FDA approves weight loss drug in daily pill form
Regulators at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration gave the green light to a pill version of the blockbuster weight-loss drug Wegovy, the first daily oral medication approved to treat obesity. Dr. Jon LaPook has more.
Financial strains of the "sandwich generation"
Between now and 2030, about 10,000 Americans will turn 65 every single day, giving rise to a term known as the "sandwich generation" -- adults who find themselves caring for their aging parents while still raising their own children. CBS News spoke to one woman about her struggles.
Bystanders pull survivors from deadly plane crash
Federal investigators are looking into what caused a deadly plane crash in Galveston Bay, off the Texas coast. A medical plane transporting a child burn victim from Mexico went down with eight people on board. Five were killed, including the 2-year-old. Karen Hua has more on the rescue mission.
Trump mentioned in newly released Epstein files
The Justice Department released thousands of new documents from the Jeffrey Epstein files, including many that mention President Trump. Scott MacFarlane reports.
Millions flood airports as Christmas travel peaks
Since Friday, more than 11.1 million people have passed through TSA checkpoints at airports nationwide. Kris Van Cleave reports from Los Angeles International Airport.