This Week on CBS News Sunday Morning: A Celebration of Film, Music, and Community

This week's edition of the Emmy Award-winning 'CBS News Sunday Morning,' hosted by Jane Pauley, presents a compelling tapestry of stories that explore the intersections of art, community, and tradition. Airing on CBS at 9:00 a.m. ET and streaming later on the CBS News app, the program offers a blend of cultural deep-dives and festive features perfect for the holiday season. From the timeless message of a classic film to the precision of a legendary dance troupe, this broadcast is designed to inform, inspire, and provide a moment of reflection.

The Enduring Magic of "It's a Wonderful Life"

The cover story takes senior contributor Ted Koppel to Seneca Falls, New York, a town that proudly considers itself the inspiration for Bedford Falls, the setting of Frank Capra's 1946 holiday classic, 'It's a Wonderful Life.' The town hosts an annual festival celebrating the film, and Koppel explores whether the movie's storybook vision of community and civility still resonates today. He speaks with residents, visitors, and two of the film's surviving actors to understand why this 79-year-old story continues to hold a powerful grip on the public imagination, serving as both a nostalgic escape and a mirror to contemporary society.

For those interested in the town's connection to the film, the 'It's a Wonderful Life' Museum and annual festival in Seneca Falls offer deeper immersion. The segment also draws from a 2011 archival report by Bill Geist, further cementing the long-standing relationship between the town and the cinematic landmark.

Centennial Celebration: The Radio City Rockettes

Marking a spectacular 100-year milestone, the world-famous Rockettes are featured in a special segment. Jane Pauley goes backstage at New York's Radio City Music Hall, home to the troupe's annual Christmas Spectacular since 1933. The report highlights the Rockettes' history, which began in Missouri, and their signature high-precision dance moves. More importantly, it showcases how the current, diverse lineup of dancers both honors the troupe's storied traditions and actively shapes its evolving future for new generations of audiences.

Profiles in Creativity: Rob Reiner and Sean Ono Lennon

This week's broadcast offers intimate looks at two influential artists. Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz reflects on the treasured filmography of actor and director Rob Reiner. From 'Stand By Me' to 'The Princess Bride' and 'When Harry Met Sally,' Reiner's work is celebrated for its unique blend of humor, drama, and profound belief in humanity. This segment ties into the CBS News special 'Rob Reiner - Scenes from a Life,' airing later the same day.

In a separate music feature, correspondent Anthony Mason sits down with Sean Ono Lennon. The musician discusses the profound responsibility and privilege of stewarding his parents' legacy—John Lennon and Yoko Ono. He talks about producing a new album of their music, the Oscar-winning animated short for 'Happy Xmas (War Is Over),' and the new HBO documentary 'One to One: John & Yoko,' framing it all as a gift to both his family and the world.

Harmonies, Silence, and Seasonal Sounds

The a cappella sensation Pentatonix brings their heavenly voices to the program. David Pogue talks with group members Kirstin Maldonado, Scott Hoying, Mitch Grassi, Kevin Olusola, and Matt Sallee about their journey, which includes three Grammy Awards and over six billion YouTube streams. They discuss blending their vocal talents with the sounds of Christmas and the recent introduction of musical instruments into their performances.

In a contrasting segment focused on tranquility, Faith Salie visits the Monastery of Christ in the Desert in Northern New Mexico. This remote sanctuary is home to 15 Benedictine monks and offers a guesthouse for those seeking respite from a turbulent world. The story explores the power of silence and spiritual reflection, updated from a 1996 archival piece that first documented the monastery's unique mission.

Web Exclusives and Annual Traditions

Beyond the main broadcast, 'Sunday Morning' offers exclusive digital content. This includes David Pogue's original holiday song 'The Sound of Christmas,' performed by Tess Lobell, and an extended interview with actors Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman discussing their new film 'Song Sung Blue.' The program also continues its beloved annual traditions, such as a festive performance by the Young People's Chorus of New York City.

Executive produced by Rand Morrison, 'CBS News Sunday Morning' remains a destination for thoughtful journalism and cultural exploration. Full episodes are available on demand via CBSNews.com, Paramount+, and other major streaming platforms, ensuring audiences can enjoy this week's rich lineup at their convenience.