This past May, Norah O'Donnell met Pope Francis for a rare and historic interview at his home, the Santa Marta guest house in Vatican City, a week before the Catholic Church hosted its inaugural World Children's Day. The 88-year-old, Argentinian-born pope, the first named Francis and first from the Americas, is known for his dedication to the poor and marginalized, and for being the most unconventional head of the Church in recent memory. He spoke candidly with O’Donnell about the wars in Israel and Gaza, Ukraine, and the migration crises around the world and on the U.S. southern border. Their wide-ranging conversation also touched upon the Church's handling of its own sexual abuse scandals; Francis' deep commitment to inclusiveness within the Church; the backlash against his papacy from certain corners of U.S. Catholicism; and an exploration of his thinking on surrogate parenthood.Last month, the arched doors of the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris opened to the public for the first time since April 2019, when a devastating fire nearly destroyed the great Gothic church. Correspondent Bill Whitaker had a first look inside a modern miracle of repair and restoration by workers and artisans who made possible French President Emmanuel Macron’s impossible-sounding pledge to complete the rebirth in five years. As Macron told Whitaker, “The decision to rebuild Notre Dame was…about our capacity to save, restore, sometimes reinvent what we are by preserving where we come from.”Correspondent Scott Pelley travels to Ethiopia to witness the Christmas vigil at Lalibela, a mysterious holy place, where churches are situated on a 42-acre site and are said to be built by angels. Pelley witnesses 200,000 Ethiopian Orthodox Christians who pilgrimage on Christmas Eve to celebrate its origins and speaks with Fasil Giorghis, an Ethiopian architect and historian, who tells Pelley, “coming here as a devout Christian is a very strong sign of their belief…some people travel hundreds of kilometers here on foot, and they have been doing it for several centuries."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Roy Cohn, a formidable lawyer known for his connections to Senator Joseph McCarthy and the controversial political landscape of his time, reflects on his polarizing legacy. He shares insights from his lavish birthday celebration attended by notable figures and discusses his unapologetic approach to power and loyalty. Cohn's obsession with winning is explored, alongside his relationship with Donald Trump and the complexities of his personal struggles, including the societal scrutiny he faced regarding his health and sexuality.

Cillian Murphy, an acclaimed Irish actor known for his roles in 'Peaky Blinders' and 'Oppenheimer', shares insights on the transformative journey of his career and how his Irish heritage shapes his identity. Jensen Huang, co-founder and CEO of Nvidia, delves into the revolutionary advancements in AI technology and its diverse applications in fields like medicine and robotics. The intriguing discussion also explores the intersection of Cuban espionage and its impact on national security, weaving in personal stories and challenges faced by both Murphy and Huang.

Denzel Washington, an award-winning actor known for his iconic roles in films like Gladiator and Training Day, shares his remarkable journey in this insightful conversation. He discusses the transition from stage acting to blockbuster fame, reflecting on his creative pursuits as a director and producer. Washington highlights the allure of his performances and the bond with audiences. He also tackles challenges faced by Black actors in Hollywood and his experiences balancing commercial success with artistic integrity, all while teasing his much-anticipated role in Gladiator II.

Ex-Mossad agents reveal dramatic details of their undercover operation that caught Hezbollah off guard, influencing the balance of power in the region. A deep dive into the alarming flow of U.S. firearms into Mexico sheds light on organized crime and legal battles against gun trafficking. Meanwhile, jazz vocalist Samara Joy captivates audiences with her Grammy-winning talent, showcasing her powerful voice on a Christmas tour filled with family moments and classic renditions.

Casey McQuiston, a best-selling romance author, discusses the genre's resurgence and Barbara Cartland's influence. Tara Parker, Cartland's granddaughter, shares heartfelt anecdotes about her grandmother's vibrant life. They explore Cartland's adherence to traditional romance themes amidst changing societal norms and her impact on notable figures like Princess Diana. The conversation also delves into the evolving landscape of romance novels in today’s reading culture, emphasizing the significance of representation and community in the genre.

Pierre-Alexis Dumas, Artistic Director of Hermès and sixth-generation family member, shares insights into the brand's legacy and unparalleled craftsmanship. He highlights the evolution of Hermès from bespoke harnesses to a global luxury icon, emphasizing their commitment to artistry amidst market pressures. Dumas also reveals the creative processes behind their iconic designs, like the Birkin and Kelly bags, balancing tradition with contemporary needs. Additionally, he discusses the cultural significance of Hermès in France’s luxury market and the challenges of preserving craftsmanship in a fast-paced industry.

Alexander Herman, a legal scholar and author, dives into the heated debate over the Parthenon marbles and their rightful ownership. He explores the historical context of Lord Elgin's acquisition and the emotional toll on Greece. Herman also connects this issue to the looting of Cambodian artifacts, highlighting the cultural significance of repatriation. The discussion showcases changing attitudes toward cultural heritage and the moral complexities of ownership, urging a reconsideration of museum practices worldwide.

Josh Plotnick, a researcher devoted to elephant behavior, shares insights on the delicate balance between human activities and wild elephants in Thailand. He discusses the ongoing conflicts caused by habitat loss, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions. Highlighting groundbreaking research, Plotnick reveals elephants' intelligence and self-awareness. He also addresses the importance of preserving both elephant populations and local livelihoods, advocating for coexistence strategies that honor Thailand's cultural ties to these majestic creatures.

Larry North, son of the compulsive gambler featured in classic segments, shares his personal journey with gambling addiction. He discusses the dark legacy of his father's addiction and its impact on their family. The dialogue examines how sports betting has evolved from a taboo to a mainstream activity, particularly among younger generations, fueled by technology. North emphasizes the critical need for awareness and regulation in the gambling industry to address addiction, showcasing the ongoing struggle faced by many families.