Tavis Smiley is a prominent African American broadcaster, author, and advocate, known for his work in bringing attention to important issues affecting the Black community. Born in 1964 in Gulfport, Mississippi, Smiley grew up in a working-class family and went on to attend Indiana University Bloomington.

Throughout his career, Smiley has been a vocal advocate for social justice and civil rights. He is best known for hosting "The Tavis Smiley Show" on NPR and the late-night television talk show "Tavis Smiley" on PBS. Smiley has interviewed numerous influential figures, including political leaders, celebrities, and intellectuals, providing a platform for important discussions on race, politics, and culture.

In addition to his broadcasting work, Tavis Smiley is also a prolific author, having written several books on topics such as leadership, spirituality, and the African American experience. He founded the Tavis Smiley Foundation, which aims to empower underserved youth through mentorship and educational programs.

However, in recent years, Tavis Smiley's reputation has been overshadowed by allegations of sexual misconduct, leading to the cancellation of his television show and a legal battle with PBS. Despite this controversy, Smiley's contributions to Black history and his advocacy for social change cannot be denied.