Tavis Smiley Biography, Wife, Net Worth, New Show

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<h2>Early Life and Family</h2>
<p>Tavis Smiley was born on September 13, 1964, in Gulfport, Mississippi, to Joyce Marie Roberts, a single mother at the time. Two years later, Joyce married Emory Garnell Smiley, a member of the U.S. Air Force. Due to Garnell's military reassignment to Grissom Air Force Base in Indiana, Tavis, along with a total of nine children in the household—four Smiley children and five nieces and nephews from Joyce's sister—relocated from Gulfport.</p>
<p>The household was governed by strict rules and discipline. Tavis and his sister, Phyllis, were once disciplined by their stepfather for showing disrespect to the pastor of their church, New Bethel Baptist Church, a testimony to the household's structured moral upbringing.</p>

<h2>Early Interest in Politics and Education</h2>
<p>Tavis developed an interest in politics at the age of 13 after attending a political fundraiser. While attending Maconaquah High School in Indiana, he became an active participant in the debate team and served on the student council. In 1982, Smiley enrolled at Indiana University Bloomington without any financial assistance from his parents, supporting himself through various jobs.</p>
<p>While at Indiana University, he maintained his political interests and was appointed director of minority affairs in his dormitory. He also worked for the Bloomington Mayor's office, earning $5 per hour. Later, he secured an unpaid internship in the office of Los Angeles <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Bradley_(mayor)">Mayor</a> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Bradley_(mayor)">Tom Bradley</a>, with financial assistance from the Bloomington Community Progress Council, which provided him $5,000 to support his living expenses. He continued to work with <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Bradley_(mayor)">Bradley</a> until 1990. Although he left the university before graduating, he eventually earned his degree in public affairs in 2003.</p>

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<h2>Radio and Television Career</h2>
<p>Tavis Smiley's media career began after he finished fourth in a race for a seat on the Los Angeles City Council. Following the loss, he launched a radio career with “The Smiley Report,” a one-minute daily commentary segment on KGFJ radio. In 1996, he became a contributor to the nationally syndicated “Tom Joyner Morning Show,” where he commented on public policy issues, especially those affecting marginalized communities.</p>
<p>His expertise as a political commentator led to appearances on national networks such as MSNBC, ABC, and CNN. Smiley further expanded his media presence by hosting “BET Tonight” on Black Entertainment Television from 1996 to 2001. He is currently known for hosting “The Tavis Smiley Show” on National Public Radio as well as the late-night talk show “Tavis Smiley” on PBS. Additionally, he has contributed to the independent news program “Democracy Now!”</p>

<h2>Philanthropy and Advocacy</h2>
<p>Tavis Smiley has consistently used his platforms to spotlight issues impacting minority communities. His organization, The Smiley Group, Inc., operates in the communications sector, promoting initiatives that highlight minority talent and perspectives. In 1999, he founded the Tavis Smiley Foundation, which focuses on youth leadership development and public service programs, aiming to prepare young people to become proactive leaders in society.</p>

<h2>Recognitions and Publications</h2>
<p>Over the years, Smiley has received numerous accolades for his work in media and public service, including 16 honorary doctorates and the Du Bois Medal from Harvard University. He was also honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In addition to his broadcasting and philanthropic efforts, Smiley is a prolific <a href="/biography/tavis-smiley">writer</a>, having authored several inspirational and socially conscious books.</p>

<h2>Personal Life</h2>
<p>Tavis Smiley is not currently married and tends to keep his personal life out of the spotlight. He remains deeply committed to public discourse, media engagement, and community upliftment, continuing to influence society through multiple platforms.</p>

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