Multiple female subordinates felt forced to carry on sexual relationships with Tavis Smiley with the firm belief that their continued employment status was inextricably intertwined with sex. This was just part of the virulent work environment that Smiley created and led to his show being dropped from PBS, the network announced.
On Wednesday Dec. 13, Public Broadcasting System “indefinitely suspended distribution” of the late-night talk show “Tavis Smiley” after the host was accused of an array of sexual misconduct.
“PBS engaged an outside law firm to conduct an investigation immediately after leaning of troubling allegations regarding Mr. Smiley,” the public broadcaster said in a statement. “This investigation included interviews with witnesses as well as with Mr. Smiley. The inquiry uncovered multiple credible allegations of conduct that is inconsistent with the values and standards of PBS, and the totality of this information led to today’s decision.”
Variety magazine reported that PBS received several complaints of misconduct by Smiley, and its investigation found credible allegations that Smiley allegedly had sexual relationships with multiple staff members, some of whom reportedly felt that their relationship with the TV host was connected to their employment status.
Several also complained that Smiley also created a verbally abusive and threatening workplace environment.
Smiley did not respond to multiple requests for interviews, nor to refute or corroborate the female employees’ allegations.
Tavis Smiley, 53, is a longtime radio commentator, TV talk show host and author. His 30-minute interview show, “Tavis Smiley,” had aired weeknights on PBS since 2004. Walmart is among the sponsors that help fund the show, according to the show’s website.
Smiley made his name using his platforms to address social justice issues, including race relations and poverty.
Smiley is not employed by PBS. The “Tavis Smiley” show is produced by TS Media, Smiley’s production company, with PBS as its distributor.
Smiley’s career includes a longtime stint on the “Tom Joyner Morning Show,” hosting a TV show on Black Entertainment Television in the 90s as well as a commentator at National Public Radio, ABC News, and CNN. In 2002, he became the first black man to host a show on NPR.
Smiley also hosted his annual “State of Black America” at the Los Angeles Convention Center for several years.
