60 Minutes CBS “Disaster Tourists, Birds of War, Perfume Capital of the World” May 3 2026
60 Minutes returns on Sunday, May 3, 2026, with a wide-ranging broadcast that moves from domestic extremism to remote landscapes and finally to the traditions of luxury craftsmanship. Airing at 7:00 PM ET/PT on CBS and streaming on Paramount+, the program continues its long-running format of in-depth reporting led by veteran correspondents.
This week’s episode features three distinct segments, each offering a different perspective on global and social issues. From the aftermath of natural disasters in the United States to the biodiversity of Colombia and the heritage of French perfume-making, the broadcast highlights the program’s signature mix of investigative journalism and cultural storytelling.
Disaster Tourists
Correspondent Lesley Stahl leads the opening segment, focusing on a troubling pattern emerging in the wake of natural disasters. In communities already facing devastation, outside groups have begun to arrive under the banner of aid and support. These groups often include conspiracists, militias, and individuals tied to extremist ideologies, raising questions about their true motivations.
The report examines how these so-called “disaster tourists” attempt to reshape their public image while building influence. Law enforcement officials share concerns about the potential risks, including the spread of misinformation and growing distrust in government institutions. Stahl’s interviews aim to understand whether this phenomenon is isolated or part of a broader shift.
The segment also includes a rare conversation with a self-identified white nationalist, offering insight into how these groups operate and present themselves during times of crisis. Through these perspectives, the report explores how vulnerable communities can become targets for recruitment and propaganda during moments of instability.
Birds of War
In a striking change of tone, Anderson Cooper travels deep into the mountains of western Colombia for the second segment. The journey takes viewers far from urban centers into regions once shaped by decades of armed conflict, where access was historically limited.
The report highlights the unexpected environmental impact of that conflict. In areas that were largely untouched due to violence, rare bird species were able to thrive. These habitats, preserved by circumstance, now represent some of the most unique ecosystems in the world.
Cooper’s story goes beyond nature, examining how birdwatching and conservation efforts are helping to rebuild connections in communities still dealing with the legacy of conflict. The segment presents the idea that shared environmental goals can serve as a bridge in regions where divisions remain deeply rooted.
Perfume Capital of the World
The final segment shifts to Europe, where correspondent Cecilia Vega reports from Grasse, widely known as the historic heart of the perfume industry. For more than a century, this region has supplied flowers used in some of the world’s most recognizable fragrances.
Vega explores how the town has changed over time. Once home to vast fields spanning thousands of acres, Grasse saw a decline as global production shifted and land use evolved. Today, only a fraction of those original flower fields remain, reflecting the challenges faced by traditional industries.
Despite that decline, the segment reveals signs of renewal. Major luxury brands have reinvested in the region, tying their identities to Grasse’s heritage and craftsmanship. This renewed interest has helped revive local agriculture and preserve traditional methods, offering a glimpse into how legacy industries can adapt in a modern global market.
