The Emmy Award-winning program “CBS News Sunday Morning,” hosted by Jane Pauley, returns this Sunday with a diverse lineup covering politics, entertainment, culture, and sports. The broadcast airs at 9:00 a.m. ET on CBS and streams on the CBS News app starting at 11:00 a.m. ET.
Cover Story: The Legacy of Ethel Kennedy
The episode’s cover story explores the life of Ethel Kennedy through the lens of her daughter, Kerry Kennedy. In her new book, “Ethel Kennedy: The Extraordinary Life and Bold Legacy,” Kerry examines how her mother maintained resilience and positivity despite enduring profound public and private tragedies. Correspondent Rita Braver speaks with Kerry about Ethel’s marriage to Senator Robert F. Kennedy, her ability to move forward after his assassination, and the complex dynamics within her relationship with her son, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Arts: The Gruffalo Returns to Bookshelves
In the books segment, correspondent Elizabeth Palmer discusses the latest installment in a beloved children’s series with authors Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Since its release in 1999, “The Gruffalo” has become a global bestseller. Their new collaboration, “Gruffalo Granny,” has already become the fastest-selling picture book ever in the U.K. and the top-selling book of the year across all genres. The creators discuss their long-standing partnership and their approach to addressing complex themes for young readers.
Broadway: Billy Crystal Finds Humor in Tragedy
Acclaimed actor and comedian Billy Crystal joins correspondent Tracy Smith to discuss his one-man stage show, “860.” The performance is deeply personal; following the January 2025 wildfires that destroyed over 5,000 homes in Los Angeles’ Pacific Palisades neighborhood—including Crystal’s own residence—he found inspiration in the ruins. Crystal shares how he transformed the loss of his family home into a comedic and reflective narrative currently playing at New York City’s Imperial Theatre through January 3.
Music: Noah Kahan’s Chart-Topping Turn
Vermont singer-songwriter Noah Kahan is featured in the music segment, reflecting on his journey from TikTok sensations to multi-platinum stardom. His fourth album, “The Great Divide,” which topped the Billboard charts, delves into themes of lost friendships, family rifts, and mental health struggles. Kahan speaks with correspondent Luke Burbank about his ongoing battle for mental well-being and his renewed focus on accessing joy through his songwriting.
Politics: Steve Bannon on the MAGA Movement
Former White House adviser and key figure in the 2016 Trump campaign, Steve Bannon, appears for an interview with senior contributor Ted Koppel. Bannon discusses his continued advocacy for the MAGA movement and his efforts to cultivate relationships with far-right political parties across Europe.
Sports: The Launch of Women’s Pro Baseball
Correspondent Faith Salie highlights the debut of the Women’s Pro Baseball League, marking a significant moment for female athletes in the U.S. seventy-two years after the folding of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. The segment features interviews with #1 draft pick Kelsie Whitmore, catcher Maggie Foxx, league commissioner Justine Siegal, and CEO Keith Stein regarding the new league’s impact on women’s sports.
Culture and Nature
The episode also includes a segment on traditional paella preparation in Valencia, Spain, where correspondent Seth Doane explores the origins of the iconic rice dish. Additionally, the program honors notable figures who have passed away, including a retrospective on actress Eva Marie Saint, who died on October 6, 2026, at the age of 102. A 2014 profile features Saint discussing her career and her decision to remain grounded outside of Hollywood.
Full episodes are available on demand via CBSNews.com, CBS.com, and Paramount+.
Finally, women’s pro baseball is back after seventy-two years. What an incredible milestone for athletes everywhere!
Steve Bannon on Sunday Morning? I really wish they had more critical pushback during that interview segment.
Billy Crystal turning such personal tragedy into comedy sounds incredibly brave. Can’t wait to see his show.