Tavis Smiley

Tavis Smiley is a political commentator, author and talk-show host. Smiley is the host of a nightly talk show on PBS called Tavis Smiley, as well as a weekly radio program on Public Radio International. Smiley first gained national exposure as a frequent political commentator on the Tom Joyner Morning Show (which he started appearing on in 1996). After servings as the host of BET Tonight, he accepted a position as host of The Tavis Smiley Show on NPR - which he hosted until 2004. On April 11, 2008, it was announced that Smiley would not be continuing as a contributor to the Tom Joyner Morning Show. While no details were given at the time, it is believed that the moved was sparked by the backlash Smiley had received in recent months over his criticism of presidential candidate Barack Obama.