Biden’s Curtain Call: “CBS Sunday Morning” Eyes Presidential Exit

CBS News Sunday Morning Key Art

The January 19th edition of “CBS News Sunday Morning” looks to bookend an era and peek into what’s next. Jane Pauley guides us through a lineup that acknowledges the shifting political sands while still finding room for human interest and historical nuggets.

Nancy Cordes will attempt the not-insignificant task of summarizing Joe Biden’s lengthy political tenure as his time in office concludes.

Then, the program pivots to the fictional with Nancy Giles venturing onto the set of CBS’s new soap opera, “Beyond the Gates.” The premise, a powerful Black family in affluent Maryland, sounds ripe for dramatic fodder, and Giles’ behind-the-scenes look will give viewers an early read on whether this new entry can cut through the crowded daytime landscape.

On the real-world political front, Robert Costa shifts the focus forward, examining the incoming Trump administration.

Erin Moriarty dips into the past with a profile of Perle Mesta, the socialite who parlayed her hosting skills into an ambassadorship. It’s a quirky historical detour, perhaps, but one that fits the “Sunday Morning” wheelhouse of uncovering interesting personalities from bygone days.

Tracy Smith’s report carries a heavier weight, as she investigates the connection between our changing climate and the increasing frequency of natural disasters. Given the headlines of recent years, this isn’t just an abstract discussion, and Smith’s findings should prove sobering.

Lisa Ling connects with Steve Guttenberg, not for his filmography this time, but for his efforts assisting those affected by wildfires – a stark reminder of the issues Smith’s report raises. Guttenberg’s personal connection to the affected area adds another dimension to the story.

Rounding out the segments, Steve Hartman shares an uplifting story about a young sportscaster, while Elizabeth Palmer is expected to bring an update on the delicate cease-fire negotiations in the Middle East. Finally, historian Douglas Brinkley offers his commentary on President Biden’s time in office, providing further context to Cordes’ earlier piece.

Alastair James is the editor-in-chief of Memorable TV, leading the charge in covering today's must-see television. A lifelong television enthusiast, his passion began with a deep dive into the world of classic sci-fi, culminating in his role as editor of "Beyond the Static," a publication devoted to celebrating iconic sci-fi series. While his love for classic television remains, Alastair's focus at Memorable TV is firmly on the present, analyzing the latest trends in the television landscape, from gripping crime dramas to the ever-evolving strategies of Survivor. His insights have been featured in numerous publications. At Memorable TV, Alastair's goal is to provide readers with sharp commentary, engaging reviews, and in-depth analysis of the shows dominating the current conversation.