*Reports are coming in to EUR that there has been a big shake up at the popular late night PBS program “Tavis Smiley.”
Three of its top executives have purportedly resigned in unison this past Friday. Neal Kendall (executive producer), Luke Sader (talent producer) and Stephanie Storey (producer).
Some sources have suggested to EURweb that the resignations came after years of acrimony between the staff and the host over differing visions of program direction and quality of show bookings. Speculation has abounded for years as to Smiley’s supposed demanding management style and whether it played a factor in the employees decision to leave; or whether the departures were amicable in nature.
The production team was most recently responsible for Smiley’s “Visions for a New America” which aired live on C-Span January 17 from George Washington University. It is not known whether the rather tepid media coverage prior to the broadcast or subsequent ratings impacted the departures.
The alleged resignations ironically come during this, the tenth anniversary of the television program.
When reaching out to Smiley spokesperson Leshelle Sargent, she offered the following response:
“Monday afternoon the entire ‘Tavis Smiley’ on PBS television staff joined Tavis in a gathering on his sound stage to celebrate and thank three producers who have been with him since day one in 2004.
We categorically deny any rumor suggesting that there is any “acrimony” amongst his TV show family. Quite the contrary, as the show is just starting its 10th anniversary season. Moreover, none of the three producers celebrated today have suggested otherwise.
We will have no further comment on this scurrilous gossip.”
It’s rather difficult at times to look in the mirror and smile when you acknowledge the fact that you are advancing the causes of a quintisential “Unka Tom.” He’s so jealous of Presiden Obama and Melissa Harris-Perry that he wets the bed at night. When ever an un-assuming African-American scholar strolls down the pike, his jealousy gullet pumps green, gooey bile and he feels threatened. He and wolf-man looking, pseudo-intellectual Cornell West want Black Folks in the United States to think they have a patent and copyright on African-American intelligensia. Some of biggest clowns and back stabbers have advanced college degrees. Here’s to you Tavis, “A has-been never was.” Think about that Mr. Intellectickle!! Fanteeking, Cape Coast Ghana
Huh? First of all, what is your definition of an “Unkle Tom?” Secondly, how long has Tavis been speaking on issues related to Black folks? Did it just begin when Obama can in office? Finally, what the heck does your character-bashing rant have to do with this article???
Hell I had to look and see whether I had somehow been redirected to another article because NOTHING he said related to the article.
Just goes to show you how our love affair w/our POTUS has reduced us…
Nah, Bro. David. I don’t feel that way about Tavis. Sometimes he had been spot on with respect to B Obama. This is coming from a donor, organizer, and voter for Obama in 08, and 12. Take it easy over there. Jack
Sorry, to see Mr Tavis leave the show,hope it all work out for him and the staff that resign with him.