60 Minutes CBS “Betting on War, The Knowledge, Christopher Nolan” May 17 2026
CBS’ long-running newsmagazine “60 Minutes” wraps up its 2025-26 season with a wide-ranging lineup of stories that explores global conflict, artificial intelligence, tradition and Hollywood filmmaking. The season finale airs Sunday, May 17, from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on CBS and Paramount+.
This week’s broadcast features three very different reports from correspondents Jon Wertheim, Anderson Cooper and Scott Pelley. The stories examine the growing world of online prediction markets tied to war and political instability, the centuries-old traditions still shaping London’s black cab industry, and an in-depth interview with acclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan ahead of his next major movie release.
“60 Minutes” remains one of television’s most enduring and respected news programs, continuing to deliver investigative reporting and high-profile interviews since its debut in 1968.
Jon Wertheim Investigates the Rise of Betting on War
The first segment of the evening, “Betting on War,” focuses on the rapidly expanding world of online prediction markets and the concerns surrounding classified information being used for financial gain. Correspondent Jon Wertheim reports on how geopolitical events are increasingly becoming part of online betting activity.
The report comes after a U.S. Army Special Forces soldier was indicted for allegedly using classified intelligence to place online bets. According to the segment preview, suspiciously timed wagers connected to events such as tensions involving Iran and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro have raised concerns about a new form of insider trading tied to global conflict and political instability.
The story examines how online betting platforms have evolved beyond sports and entertainment into areas involving war, military action and world leadership. As these prediction markets continue to grow in popularity, lawmakers and experts are questioning whether regulations are keeping pace with the technology and access to sensitive information.
Andy Bast and Jessica Kegu serve as producers for the report.
Anderson Cooper Explores London’s Legendary Black Cab Tradition
In “The Knowledge,” Anderson Cooper travels through the streets of London to examine one of the city’s oldest and most respected professions. While many technology companies continue pushing autonomous vehicles and AI-powered transportation, London’s iconic black cab drivers still rely on memory, training and tradition.
The segment focuses on “the Knowledge,” a demanding test that has been part of London taxi culture for more than 160 years. Prospective cab drivers must memorize thousands of streets, landmarks and routes across the city before earning their license.
Cooper rides through London’s narrow roads and historic alleyways while learning why many drivers believe human instinct and experience cannot easily be replaced by artificial intelligence. The story also explores the pride and identity connected to the profession, as drivers defend their role against the growing influence of big tech companies and automated transportation systems.
The report offers viewers a look at both old and new approaches to travel in one of the world’s busiest cities. Katie Brennan is the producer.
Christopher Nolan Discusses His Career and “The Odyssey”
The final segment of the season finale features an interview with Oscar-winning filmmaker Christopher Nolan. Correspondent Scott Pelley sits down with the director ahead of the release of his highly anticipated adaptation of Homer’s epic poem “The Odyssey.”
Nolan has become one of Hollywood’s most respected directors through films such as “Oppenheimer,” “Inception,” “Interstellar,” “Dunkirk” and “The Dark Knight” trilogy. Across his career, his films have earned 18 Academy Awards and widespread critical acclaim.
During the interview, Pelley speaks with Nolan about his passion for filmmaking from a young age, his signature directing style and the scale of his newest project. The segment also includes commentary from people who know Nolan best, offering insight into his creative process and reputation within the film industry.
“The Odyssey” is expected to be one of Nolan’s most ambitious productions to date, and the interview gives audiences an early look at the vision behind the adaptation of the classic Greek story.
Nicole Young is the producer for the segment.
How to Watch the “60 Minutes” Season Finale
The season finale of “60 Minutes” airs Sunday, May 17, from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on CBS. The episode will also stream on Paramount+ for subscribers.
The broadcast closes another season for the iconic news program, which continues to deliver investigative journalism, cultural reporting and interviews with influential figures from around the world.
