Watch Tavis Smiley

From 2004 to 2017, PBS aired Tavis Smiley, a late-night talk show hosted by the eponymous journalist and political commentator. The program focused on interviewing newsmakers, thought leaders, and celebrity guests from a variety of industries including politics, entertainment, and arts.

Tavis Smiley was known for its in-depth conversations that delved into complex social and political issues. The show’s topics often covered a range of social and political issues, such as poverty, racism, police brutality, and education. Smiley had a reputation for asking tough questions and not shying away from controversial or uncomfortable topics. As a result, many guests were forced to confront difficult questions and issues that they may not have confronted otherwise.

One of the hallmarks of the show was the diverse range of guests that Smiley interviewed. From politicians like Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton to noted intellectuals like Noam Chomsky, Tavis Smiley aimed to provide a platform for voices that often go unheard in mainstream media. In addition to political figures, the show frequently featured voices from the arts and entertainment industries, including filmmakers, musicians, and authors.

Another distinctive aspect of Tavis Smiley was its focus on the African American experience and issues affecting the Black community. Smiley often used the show as a platform to discuss systemic racism, economic inequality, and social justice issues that impacted the Black community. He was also committed to highlighting the achievements of Black artists and thinkers and giving a voice to those who were often marginalized in mainstream media.

Throughout its run, Tavis Smiley received numerous accolades and awards for its journalistic integrity and dedication to covering underrepresented communities and voices. In 2014, the show won a Peabody Award for its coverage of the Voting Rights Act and the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act. Additionally, the show was a two-time NAACP Image Award winner for Outstanding Series.

Despite its successes, Tavis Smiley was not without controversy. In 2017, the show was abruptly canceled by PBS following allegations of sexual misconduct against Smiley. The network cited “credible and corroborated allegations” of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior as the reason for the cancellation. Smiley strongly denied the allegations and later filed a lawsuit against PBS claiming racial discrimination and breach of contract.

In conclusion, Tavis Smiley was a groundbreaking and award-winning talk show that focused on in-depth conversations with newsmakers, thought leaders, and celebrities. The show’s commitment to giving a voice to underrepresented communities and exploring complex social and political issues made it a staple of late-night television. Although its sudden cancellation was a controversial and unfortunate end to its run, Tavis Smiley will still be remembered as a important contribution to the world of televised journalism.