httpss://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJHD5_nrgpU
Smiley then told viewers PBS didn’t inform him it was launching its “So-called investigation” against him.
As the video continued, Smiley said he believes PBS “Overreacted” and conducted a “Sloppy” investigation.
In addition to sharing the video, Smiley shared a corresponding post, in which he claimed he learned of his suspension on the eve of the 15th season and 3,000th episode of his show.
According to the aforementioned Variety article, PBS hired attorney Sarah Taylor Wirtz from the firm MSK to conduct an investigation after learning of “Multiple allegations of misconduct” against Smiley.
PBS released a statement to Variety upon announcing Smiley’s suspension Wednesday.
“Effective today, PBS has indefinitely suspended distribution of Tavis Smiley, produced by TS Media, an independent production company,” the public broadcaster said.
“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.”