CBS News Sunday Morning Season 40 Episode 97 December 23, 2018

After 40 seasons and 97 episodes, CBS News Sunday Morning continues to be a beloved weekly news program that emphasizes art, culture, and feel-good human interest stories. In its latest episode, which aired on December 23, 2018, viewers were treated to a range of stories that explored the various ways people find joy and celebrate during the holiday season.

One segment chronicled the history of Christmas tree ornaments, tracing their origins to 19th-century Germany and exploring how they've evolved over the years to reflect cultural and societal changes. Another piece took us to a small town in Virginia where a group of volunteers go all out to create an extravagant holiday lights display every year, raising money for charity and spreading cheer to visitors from all over.

In keeping with the holiday theme, CBS News correspondent Tracy Smith sat down with actor Kurt Russell to talk about his role in the Netflix movie "The Christmas Chronicles," which has since become a holiday staple for many families. Russell, who plays a gruff and unconventional Santa Claus in the film, talked about the fun he had taking on the iconic role and the heartwarming response the movie has received from viewers.

Elsewhere in the episode, correspondent Rita Braver profiled singer-songwriter Bebe Rexha, who burst onto the music scene in 2014 with the hit song "I Can't Stop Drinking About You." Rexha is known for her soaring voice and upbeat pop anthems, but in the interview she opened up about the challenges she's faced as a woman in the music industry, as well as her struggles with anxiety and bipolar disorder. It was a candid and inspiring conversation that offered a glimpse into the person behind the performer.

Another segment explored the idea of "hygge," a Danish term that roughly translates to "coziness" and has gained popularity as a lifestyle trend in recent years. From candles to wool socks to warm beverages, the segment looked at the various ways people can create a sense of hygge in their homes and lives, especially during the colder months.

In true Sunday Morning fashion, the show also featured a number of quirky and unconventional stories. One piece highlighted the unique art of magician and sculptor Tom Noddy, who creates intricate soap bubble formations that seem to defy gravity and physics. Another segment introduced viewers to Joe Thompson, a retired plumber in California who has spent the last 30 years building an incredibly detailed miniature version of a Western town, complete with a saloon, a jail, and a general store.

Finally, the episode concluded with a touching tribute to some of the notable figures who had passed away in the previous year, from Senator John McCain to the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. It was a reminder of the power of art, music, and storytelling to leave a lasting impact on our lives, even when those who created them are no longer with us.

Overall, CBS News Sunday Morning season 40 episode 97 was a heartwarming and entertaining tribute to the holiday season, showcasing the many ways people find joy and beauty in the world around them. As the show continues to evolve and adapt to changing times, its commitment to thoughtful storytelling and uplifting content remains as strong as ever.