Tavis Smiley (Credit: Facebook)
Tavis Smiley, the host of his own half-hour interview program distributed by the Public Broadcasting Service, was suspended after allegations of “conduct that is inconsistent with the values and standards of PBS.” iMediaEthics has written to PBS for more information about the suspension and allegations; we’ve also contacted Smiley through his website; PBS pointed to its statement to the AP about the suspension.
The statement published Dec. 14 from PBS reads:
“Following receipt of a complaint, PBS hired an independent law firm to conduct an investigation and we stand by its integrity. The totality of the investigation, which included Mr. Smiley, revealed a pattern of multiple relationships with subordinates over many years, and other conduct inconsistent with the values and standards of PBS.”
PBS has suspended its distribution of "Tavis Smiley" after "multiple, credible" allegations of sexual misconduct against the late-night show's eponymous host. https://t.co/5JsgggftSF pic.twitter.com/nXXfMysw9N
— PBS NewsHour (@NewsHour) December 14, 2017
In a statement to Variety, PBS said:
“Effective today, PBS has indefinitely suspended distribution of ‘Tavis Smiley,’ produced by TS Media, an independent production company. PBS engaged an outside law firm to conduct an investigation immediately after learning of troubling allegations regarding Mr. Smiley. 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.”
More on the suspension and allegations at Variety.
Minnesota Public Radio fired Garrison Keillor last month after allegations in “inappropriate behavior.”
PBS and CBS News dropped Charlie Rose after sexual misconduct claims.
NBC News fired Matt Lauer after allegations of “inappropriate sexual behavior.”
NPR ousted its chief news editor David Sweeney and head of news Michael Oreskes following allegations of misconduct.
CNN fired senior producer Teddy Davis after allegations of inappropriate behavior.
Vice Media fired three people during its investigation into “verbal and sexual harassment.”
New York public radio station WNYC suspended hosts Leonard Lopate and Jonathan Schwartz after “allegations of inappropriate conduct.”
UPDATED: 12/14/2017 1:08 PM EST
