NPR News Now Episode: July 22, 2025, 4PM EDT

On this edition of NPR News Now, listeners are presented with a comprehensive overview of the day's most pressing stories, ranging from significant cultural losses to critical international developments and impactful legal proceedings.

1. The Passing of Heavy Metal Icon, Ozzy Osbourne

Timestamp: [00:26] - [01:37]

The legendary heavy metal singer, Ozzy Osbourne, passed away at the age of 76, as announced by his family. Osbourne, born John Michael Osborne in Birmingham in 1948, was a pivotal figure in the creation of heavy metal through his work with Black Sabbath.

Andrew Limbong, reporting for NPR, highlighted Osbourne's early life and career trajectory:

"John Michael Osborne was born in Birmingham in 1948 to a working-class family. He told NPR in 2010 that because of his dis and add, school wasn't his thing, he gravitated towards music." (00:49)

Osbourne's passion for music was evident from a young age:

"So when I heard the Beatles, I thought, that's it. That's what I want to be. I want to be a Beatle." (01:07)

Despite personal struggles with drugs, alcohol, and band conflicts that led to his departure from Black Sabbath, Osbourne's influence on the music industry remained indelible. His legacy as the "Prince of Darkness" was further cemented by his ventures into reality TV and his infamous on-stage antics, such as biting the head off a bat.

2. Legal Developments in the Jeffrey Epstein Case

Timestamp: [01:37] - [02:33]

A significant legal update emerged as a federal judge seeks expedited resolution regarding the release of grand jury documents from the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.

Ryan Lucas provided an in-depth analysis:

"The Justice Department filed papers on Friday asking U.S. district Judge Richard Berman to unseal the grand jury transcripts from the investigation into the disgraced financier and sex offender." (01:50)

While grand jury proceedings are typically confidential, the high public interest in the Epstein case has prompted the Justice Department to request an exception. However, Judge Berman expressed concerns over the adequacy of the government's justifications:

"He has given the Justice Department a week to address those factors. The judge has also set a two-week deadline to hear from an Epstein representative and from his victims on making the grand jury transcripts public." (01:50)

This development underscores the ongoing tension between transparency and judicial confidentiality in high-profile cases.

3. Dire Humanitarian Situation in Gaza

Timestamp: [02:33] - [03:22]

Health infrastructure in Gaza faces imminent collapse as multiple clinics announce their closure amidst severe shortages of medical supplies and fuel.

Emily Fang reported on the escalating crisis:

"The Gaza Ministry of Health says the World Health Organization has not been able to get medical supplies and fuel into Gaza, and so already overwhelmed health clinics are closing their doors." (02:37)

Compounding the humanitarian woes, a WHO facility was struck by Israeli artillery, resulting in significant damage:

"A building housing staff from the WHO in Gaza also said it was struck by Israeli artillery and caught on fire this week." (02:37)

Israel justified the strike as a response to incoming gunfire and affirmed that evacuation orders had been issued:

"Israel says it was responding to gunfire in its direction and that it had given evacuation orders for the area." (02:37)

Despite assurances from the White House, with Press Secretary Caroline Levitt stating:

"President Trump... never likes to see Palestinians being killed while trying to access food and said he wanted a negotiated ceasefire." (02:37)

The World Health Organization and other aid organizations remain on standby with substantial aid, yet face bureaucratic hurdles in gaining permission from the Israeli military to deliver it.

4. New U.S. Trade Agreements with the Philippines and Indonesia

Timestamp: [03:22] - [04:04]

In international trade news, the United States has secured new agreements aimed at strengthening economic ties and securing critical resources.

Lakshmi Singh reported:

"President Trump says the Philippines is agreeing to a new trade deal, 19% tariffs on products imported from the Philippines while the Philippines lifts tariffs on all US Goods." (03:22)

Additionally, the administration announced a framework agreement with Indonesia:

"The Trump administration's also announcing an agreement with Indonesia on a framework for a trade agreement that gives the US greater access to critical minerals." (03:22)

These agreements are strategic moves to enhance bilateral trade relationships and ensure the U.S. has access to essential minerals vital for various industries.

5. Cancellation of "Late Night with Stephen Colbert"

Timestamp: [03:22] - [04:55]

In entertainment news, CBS has announced the cancellation of "Late Night with Stephen Colbert," with the final show slated for May 2026. This decision has sparked discussions about the interplay between financial considerations and political pressures.

Elizabeth Blair detailed the circumstances:

"CBS recently announced Late Night with Stephen Colbert's last show would be in May 2026... CBS says it's canceling Colbert for financial reasons. Others say it's political pressure." (04:04)

The announcement garnered widespread reactions on social media, particularly from former President Trump, who had previously criticized Colbert:

"Last year on social media, President Trump said Colbert was not funny and that CBS should terminate his contract." (04:43)

Furthermore, administrative hurdles loom as CBS owner Paramount requires government approval to merge with Skydance Media, potentially influencing the network's decision to end the popular late-night show.

6. Stock Market Update

Timestamp: [04:55]

Wrapping up the news segment, the stock market saw a positive close for the day.

Lakshmi Singh reported:

"The Dow has closed up 179 points to end the day at 44,502." (04:55)

This uptick reflects investor sentiment and market dynamics, providing a snapshot of economic activity for the day.

Conclusion

Today's NPR News Now episode delivered a breadth of information spanning cultural losses, legal battles, humanitarian crises, international trade, and entertainment industry shifts. Each story underscores the intricate tapestry of global and domestic issues shaping our world today.

Note: For listeners seeking more in-depth coverage, NPR News offers comprehensive reporting through its various platforms, ensuring audiences remain informed and engaged with the latest developments.