Tavis Smiley


Tavis Smiley
Tavis Smiley features a unique mix of news and pop culture to combine for one thought-provoking and entertaining program. A hybrid of news, issues and entertainment, it features interviews with artists, activists, newsmakers, politicians and everyday people. Since its first season, the show has won four NAACP Image Awards for "Outstanding Television, News, Talk, or Information (Series or Special)." Taped at KCET studios, Tavis Smiley is the first West Coast talk show for PBS and is produced by The Smiley Group Inc./TS Media Inc. in association with KCET/Hollywood.

Genre: Game Show

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  • Episodes

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Val Kilmer

      aired: Wed, Jun 19, 2013

      One of the most prolific actors of his generation, Kilmer shares the backstory of his new one-man show, "Citizen Twain."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Shohreh Aghdashloo

      aired: Tue, Jun 18, 2013

      The Oscar nominee recounts some of her struggles as a woman, a Muslim and an Iranian, as detailed in her memoir, "The Alley of Love and Yellow Jasmines."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former MLB pitcher Dwight Gooden

      aired: Fri, Jun 14, 2013

      One of the greatest MLB pitchers of all time, Gooden shares stories of his personal and professional challenges, as detailed in his candid memoir, "Doc."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: CFR president Richard Haass

      aired: Fri, Jun 14, 2013

      The Council on Foreign Relations president unpacks his text, "Foreign Policy Begins at Home."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Julian Fellowes & Elizabeth McGovern

      aired: Wed, Jun 12, 2013

      Oscar winner Fellowes and actress McGovern talk about their critically acclaimed and Emmy-winning period drama series, "Downton Abbey."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Civil rights advocate Myrlie Evers-Williams

      aired: Wed, Jun 12, 2013

      An activist in her own right, Evers-Williams reflects on the legacy of her slain husband, civil rights hero, Medgar Evers.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer-director Joss Whedon

      aired: Thu, Jun 6, 2013

      The Oscar-nominated writer and series showrunner talks about his latest projects: the film "Much Ado About Nothing" and the upcoming series "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former NBA coach Phil Jackson

      aired: Wed, Jun 5, 2013

      The legendary NBA coach sparks controversy with his new text, "Eleven Rings: The Soul of Success."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor David Harewood

      aired: Thu, May 30, 2013

      The British actor offers an update on life after his turn on the Emmy-winning drama, "Homeland," including his upcoming portrayal of the legendary Paul Robeson.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Scientist Jared Diamond

      aired: Sun, May 26, 2013

      The provocative best-selling author unpacks his new text, the intensely debated "The World Until Yesterday."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-writer-director Ethan Hawke : May 23rd, 2013

      aired: Fri, May 24, 2013

      The multiple Oscar nominee talks about his new release, the highly anticipated "Before Midnight"—which he also co-wrote.

    • Episode

      Celebrating 2,000 Shows on PBS

      aired: Fri, May 24, 2013

      We celebrate our landmark 2,000th show on PBS with special highlights from some of our enlightening, encouraging and empowering conversations over the past 10 years.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Playwright-activist Eve Ensler

      aired: Thu, May 23, 2013

      The longtime activist and Tony-winning playwright—of "Vagina Monologue" fame—explains the motivation for her new text, "In the Body of the World."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Economist Peter Blair Henry

      aired: Fri, May 17, 2013

      Dean of NYU’s Stern School of Business, Henry unpacks his book, "Turnaround: Third World Lessons for First World Growth."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Investigative journalist Jeremy Scahill

      aired: Wed, May 15, 2013

      The best-selling author shares the backstory of his new book & documentary, "Dirty Wars," which looks at America’s covert wars in a post 9-11 world.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer Joyce Carol Oates

      aired: Thu, May 9, 2013

      The best-selling writer and college professor explains her new historical novel, set in Princeton, NJ.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician John Densmore

      aired: Thu, May 9, 2013

      The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer shares the backstory of his book, "The Doors Unhinged," which chronicles his fight to defend the band’s legacy.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress-comedienne Carol Burnett

      aired: Wed, May 8, 2013

      The award-winning entertainer discusses her relationship with her late daughter, as detailed in the book, "Carrie and Me."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Sir Ben Kingsley

      aired: Fri, May 3, 2013

      The award-winning thespian discusses his villainous role in the latest installment of Marvel Comics’ "Iron Man" action adventure feature series.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Director Tom Shadyac

      aired: Fri, May 3, 2013

      The man behind a string of blockbuster comedies and author of "Life’s Operating Manual" recounts events that prompted him to downsize his life in a major way.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Pierce Brosnan

      aired: Wed, May 1, 2013

      The two-time Golden Globe nominee reflects on embracing new challenges in his latest film project, the romantic comedy, "Love Is All You Need."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Director Mira Nair

      aired: Wed, May 1, 2013

      One of few women of color to break through the ranks as a major motion picture director, Nair describes her new film, which tackles issues of nationalism and identity in a post-9-11 world.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Chadwick Boseman

      aired: Thu, Apr 25, 2013

      The actor, director and playwright explains the challenge of playing the lead role in the feature biopic, 42, which celebrates the courage of Jackie Robinson.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-director Kevin Bacon

      aired: Thu, Apr 25, 2013

      The Emmy-nominated actor explains his decision to do television, with his role in the Fox suspense series, The Following.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress-singer-writer Molly Ringwald

      aired: Thu, Apr 25, 2013

      The versatile co-star of "The Secret Life of the American Teenager" talks about her love of music and her new jazz CD, “Except Sometimes.”

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer Mary Williams & Actress Jane Fonda

      aired: Wed, Apr 24, 2013

      The writer and her Oscar-winning actress-mom describe how an encounter at a summer camp many years ago transformed both their lives forever.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Harrison Ford

      aired: Fri, Apr 19, 2013

      The Oscar-nominated actor describes lessons learned from portraying Brooklyn Dodgers GM Branch Rickey in the new Jackie Robinson biopic, "42."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Rock band Heart

      aired: Fri, Apr 19, 2013

      The Wilson sisters reflect on their pioneering career and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater's Robert Battle & Alicia

      aired: Thu, Apr 18, 2013

      Artistic director Battle and principal dancer Mack discuss their goal to build on the prestigious Company's triumphs while making sure it stays relevant.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Paul Anka

      aired: Wed, Apr 17, 2013

      The singer-songwriter reflects on his remarkable longevity in show business, as detailed in his recently released memoir, "My Way."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Senator Bernie Sanders

      aired: Wed, Apr 17, 2013

      Vermont’s Independent senator and a member of the Budget committee, Sanders weighs in on the latest White House budget proposal.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Latino Nation – Panel discussion, Part 2

      aired: Sat, Apr 13, 2013

      We continue our Latino Nation dialogue with a diverse group of panelists on the growing role of Latinos in American society.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Latino Nation – Panel discussion, Part 3

      aired: Sat, Apr 13, 2013

      Our special broadcast concludes with an examination of assumptions and possibilities for a better, more united tomorrow.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Latino Nation – Panel discussion, Part 1

      aired: Fri, Apr 12, 2013

      Part 1 of our broadcast of this very special gathering challenges stereotypes and provides a deeper understanding of the increasingly powerful Latino community.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Rita Moreno, Part 1

      aired: Wed, Apr 10, 2013

      One of only eight living entertainers to achieve the honor of the industry's "grand slam" of awards, Moreno shares stories from her one-of-a-kind career.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Rita Moreno, Part 2

      aired: Wed, Apr 10, 2013

      We continue our fascinating conversation with the award-winning actress about her candid autobiography.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Sociologist Jonathan Rieder

      aired: Fri, Apr 5, 2013

      The noted sociologist and Barnard College professor explains the motivation for his latest text on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician Stephen Stills

      aired: Fri, Apr 5, 2013

      One of rock music's most enduring figures, Stills reflects on his five decades in the business.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Jeremy Piven

      aired: Thu, Apr 4, 2013

      The multiple Emmy winner describes his lead role in the new series, "Mr. Selfridge."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Eva Mendes

      aired: Thu, Apr 4, 2013

      The "Training Day" co-star talks about her role in the indie drama "The Place Beyond the Pines."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: L.A. Kitchen founder-president Robert Egger

      aired: Fri, Mar 29, 2013

      The pioneering president of D.C. Central Kitchen describes how he plans to model the concept at L.A. Kitchen.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress-singer Emmy Rossum

      aired: Thu, Mar 28, 2013

      The versatile actress-singer talks about her multiple projects, including a film, TV show and new CD.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Thandie Newton

      aired: Wed, Mar 27, 2013

      The "Crash" co-star explains her lead role in DirecTV’s new original series, "Rogue."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: LAUSD Superintendent Dr. John Deasy

      aired: Wed, Mar 27, 2013

      The chief of the second largest school district in the U.S. offers his vision on education.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician-singer-songwriter Peter Yarrow

      aired: Wed, Mar 27, 2013

      Yarrow, a member of Peter, Paul and Mary, solo artist and longtime activist, talks about his latest project, the book and CD, "I’m in Love with a Big Blue Frog."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Tavis Smiley Reports: "Education Under Arrest"

      aired: Tue, Mar 26, 2013

      Tavis takes his cameras to Washington State, Louisiana, Missouri and California to present a narrative of what is working on the frontlines of reform in juvenile justice.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Angela Bassett & director Antoine Fuqua

      aired: Sat, Mar 23, 2013

      The Oscar-nominated actress and "Training Day" director describe the working relationship on their new feature thriller, "Olympus Has Fallen."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Author Taylor Branch

      aired: Sat, Mar 23, 2013

      The Pulitzer Prize-winning writer explains his new text, "The King Years: Historic Moments in the Civil Rights Movement."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Author Bruce Feiler

      aired: Thu, Mar 21, 2013

      The best-selling author discusses his new unconventional parenting text, "The Secrets of Happy Families".

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former U.S. ambassador to Israel Martin Indyk

      aired: Wed, Mar 20, 2013

      On the eve of President Obama’s first trip to Israel, the former U.S. ambassador to that country assesses the stakes.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Elisabeth Moss

      aired: Fri, Mar 15, 2013

      The versatile actress describes her lead role in the BBC and Sundance Channel miniseries, "Top of the Lake."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Authors Po Bronson & Ashley Merryman

      aired: Fri, Mar 15, 2013

      'The best-selling authors discuss the research for their new text, "Top Dog: The Science of Winning and Losing."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Rapper Snoop Lion

      aired: Thu, Mar 14, 2013

      The artist formerly known as Snoop Dogg riffs on the revealing journey to Jamaica that prompted major changes in his life.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Entrepreneur Arianna Huffington

      aired: Wed, Mar 13, 2013

      The entrepreneur media mogul critiques the status of women in the U.S. and around the world.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Director-producer David Steinberg

      aired: Thu, Mar 7, 2013

      The Emmy-winning comedian takes us "Inside Comedy" and exposes what it takes to make people laugh.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Matthew Fox

      aired: Thu, Mar 7, 2013

      The former "Lost" star gives an update on his work in the new feature "Emperor," based on controversial real-life events.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Education activist Michelle Rhee

      aired: Thu, Mar 7, 2013

      The pioneering advocate and "Radical" author offers lessons learned in her efforts to reform schools in the U.S.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Social psychologist Anthony Greenwald

      aired: Thu, Mar 7, 2013

      The social psychologist challenges the notion that most people are fair and willing to take others as they are.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former FDIC chair SheilaBair

      aired: Wed, Mar 6, 2013

      The former FDIC chair and current chair of the nonpartisan Systemic Risk Council weighs in on budget sequestration politics.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician Taj Mahal

      aired: Thu, Feb 28, 2013

      The two-time Grammy winner reflects on his career longevity and the new box set release, "Taj Mahal: The Complete Columbia Albums Collection."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Dulé Hill

      aired: Thu, Feb 28, 2013

      The four-time Image Award nominee and "West Wing" co-star previews the new season of his series, "Psych" on the USA Network.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Educator Dr. Marvin Thompson

      aired: Thu, Feb 28, 2013

      Dr. Thompson talks about his approach to school leadership and being the subject of the OWN docu-series, "Blackboard Wars."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: California Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom

      aired: Wed, Feb 27, 2013

      California's lieutenant governor and former San Francisco mayor explains his text, "Citizenville," about the future of government in the digital age.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Comedian GeorgeWallace

      aired: Wed, Feb 27, 2013

      One of America’s most successful comedians reflects on his 10th year as a resident headliner in Las Vegas—the longest run in Vegas history for any African American performer.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musicians Ben Harper & Charlie Musselwhite

      aired: Fri, Feb 22, 2013

      The singer-songwriter-guitarist and famed blues harmonica player explain how they united for the new CD, “Get Up!”

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Theologian Gina Messina-Dysert

      aired: Fri, Feb 22, 2013

      Dr. Messina-Dysert weighs in on the challenges facing the Catholic Church and the future of Catholicism in America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-director Anthony Edwards

      aired: Thu, Feb 21, 2013

      The Golden Globe and three-time SAG winner describes his return to TV in ABC's new drama, "Zero Hour."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: R&B; singer Lloyd Price

      aired: Wed, Feb 20, 2013

      The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame R&B; singer recounts stories from his 60 years in the music business.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Laura Dern: February 15th, 2013

      aired: Fri, Feb 15, 2013

      The Oscar-nominated actress talks about her character in the HBO series, "Enlightened," which she also co-created.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Josh Gad

      aired: Thu, Feb 14, 2013

      The Tony-nominated actor talks about his new family comedy, "1600 Penn."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer Eric Burdon

      aired: Thu, Feb 14, 2013

      The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer describes the personal nature of his new disc, “‘Til Your River Runs Dry!”

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Jeffrey Osborne

      aired: Fri, Feb 8, 2013

      The platinum-selling vocalist discusses why it took 8 years to release his new CD, "A Time for Love."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer-director David O. Russell

      aired: Fri, Feb 8, 2013

      The Oscar-nominated writer-director comments on the accolades his film, 'Silver Linings Playbook,' has garnered this awards season.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-director-producer Tony Goldwyn

      aired: Thu, Feb 7, 2013

      The co-star of 'Scandal,' the NAACP Image Award winner for best drama series, reflects on balancing his work in front of and behind the cameras.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer Amy Wilentz

      aired: Wed, Feb 6, 2013

      Wilentz, who’s written several books on Haiti, explains why she returns to the subject in her latest text, 'Farewell, Fred Voodoo.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Sen.Bernie Sanders

      aired: Wed, Feb 6, 2013

      Vermont’s independent senator weighs in on what he feels are the important issues for the new Congressional session.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Filmmaker Malik Bendjelloul

      aired: Thu, Jan 31, 2013

      The Swedish filmmaker talks about his unexpected difficulty in funding his first ever—and Oscar-nominated—feature-length documentary, 'Searching for Sugar Man.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Screenwriter David Magee

      aired: Thu, Jan 31, 2013

      The 'Life of Pi' writer reflects on the film’s 11 Oscar nominations, including one for best adapted screenplay.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer Aaron Neville

      aired: Thu, Jan 31, 2013

      The four-time Grammy Award-winning singer shares the history behind his tribute to doo-wop on his new CD, “My True Story.”

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Entrepreneur Ping Fu

      aired: Thu, Jan 31, 2013

      Fu, co-founder and CEO of Geomagic, recounts her unusual journey to becoming a successful entrepreneur, as detailed in her memoir, 'Bend, Not Break.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 4

      aired: Sat, Jan 26, 2013

      We wrap the broadcast of our panel discussion on solutions in the war on poverty: "Vision for a New America."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 3

      aired: Fri, Jan 25, 2013

      We continue our broadcast of a special event from Washington, "Vision for a New America: A Future Without Poverty"—a conversation about one of the most important, but often-forgotten issues of our time.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 2

      aired: Fri, Jan 25, 2013

      The 'Vision for a New America' panel discussion continues with some of the country's most prominent thinkers and advocates addressing the notion of making poor people a priority in America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 1

      aired: Wed, Jan 23, 2013

      In part 1 of our special four-night series, 'Vision for a New America,' Tavis moderates a panel of opinion-makers focusing on the crippling issue of poverty in America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Historian Clayborne Carson

      aired: Sat, Jan 19, 2013

      On King Day 2013 and the day of President Obama's second inaugural, the man hand-picked by Mrs. King to edit and publish her husband's papers shares stories from his new book, 'Martin's Dream.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Civil rights activist Coretta Scott King

      aired: Wed, Jan 16, 2013

      A noted activist in her own right, Mrs. King sat with us a year before she passed away to discuss the enduring legacy of her husband, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter James Taylor

      aired: Wed, Jan 16, 2013

      The Rock and Rock Hall of Famer reflects on the rough period of his addiction and the reason he doesn't like to listen to himself on the radio.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Prince: January 15th, 2013

      aired: Wed, Jan 16, 2013

      We look back at memorable appearances by the musician described by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a "force of nature."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Nobel laureate Leymah Gbowee

      aired: Wed, Jan 16, 2013

      Our 10th anniversary week continues with the Liberian peace advocate, days before she was named a recipient of the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: President Barack Obama: January 14,th 2013

      aired: Tue, Jan 15, 2013

      We revisit our conversations with the president during his six previous appearances on the show, dating back to his days as a little-known Illinois state senator.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Noel 'Paul' Stookey

      aired: Thu, Dec 20, 2012

      Paul' of Peter, Paul and Mary fame—a longtime activist—describes his newest solo project, 'One & Many.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Jazz musician Marcus Miller

      aired: Tue, Dec 18, 2012

      The two-time Grammy-winning musician, composer and producer shares the inspiration for his new CD, 'Renaissance.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Author Anne Lamott

      aired: Mon, Dec 17, 2012

      The acclaimed writer describes her latest text, 'Help, Thanks, Wow: The Three Essential Prayers.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Supremes' co-founder Mary Wilson

      aired: Thu, Dec 13, 2012

      The Supremes co-founder reflects on the 50th anniversary of the legendary group’s first album on the then up-and-coming label called Motown.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-writer-producer Matt Damon, Part 2

      aired: Thu, Dec 13, 2012

      The outspoken Hollywood power player discusses his philanthropic work and his pending projects.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-writer-producer Matt Damon, Part 1

      aired: Wed, Dec 12, 2012

      The Oscar winner recaps his new feature, 'Promised Land'—in which he stars and also co-wrote and co-produced.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Kristen Stewart

      aired: Tue, Dec 11, 2012

      The 'Twilight' franchise star explains why she committed to the role she plays in the upcoming feature release, 'On the Road.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-producer Andy Garcia

      aired: Fri, Dec 7, 2012

      Garcia shares the backstory of his latest film, the environmental thriller 'A Dark Truth,' which he also co-exec-produced.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Crime writer Michael Connelly

      aired: Fri, Dec 7, 2012

      The newspaper reporter-turned-mystery writer explains his upcoming documentary and his return to the Harry Bosch novel series with 'The Black Box.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka

      aired: Thu, Dec 6, 2012

      The noted Nigerian writer & Nobel laureate responds to negative stereotypes about his home continent—the motivation for his latest text, 'Of Africa.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Alicia Keys

      aired: Thu, Dec 6, 2012

      The 14-time Grammy Award winner talks about her new CD, 'Girl on Fire.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Author Nassim Nicholas Taleb

      aired: Tue, Dec 4, 2012

      The renowned political and financial thinker explains his argument that chaos should be embraced—the position he takes in his new text, 'Antifragile.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Aimee Mann

      aired: Fri, Nov 30, 2012

      The Grammy winner talks about her new project, 'Charmer'—her first CD in four years.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer Bettye LaVette

      aired: Thu, Nov 29, 2012

      The R&B; great reflects on her memoir, 'A Woman Like Me,' and her new CD, 'Thankful N' Thoughtful.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Dr. Robert K. Ross

      aired: Wed, Nov 28, 2012

      The California Endowment president weighs in on healthcare issues in the U.S., particularly for boys and young men of color.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Philanthropists Bernard and Shirley Kinsey

      aired: Mon, Nov 26, 2012

      The L.A.-based couple explain how “The Kinsey Collection” explores the intersection of art and history.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer Paul Tough

      aired: Mon, Nov 26, 2012

      Tough challenges the belief that intelligence is the sole indicator of value in the education system.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Blue Note Records president Don Was

      aired: Mon, Nov 26, 2012

      The musician, Grammy-winning producer and label exec shares the future he sees for Blue Note Records.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Indiana University SPEA Dean John D. Graham

      aired: Sun, Nov 25, 2012

      Dr. Graham assesses the potential well-being of the working poor, the near poor and the new poor in an economic recovery.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Sally Field, Part 2

      aired: Fri, Nov 16, 2012

      In part two of our conversation with the multiple Oscar and Emmy winner, Field reflects on her work in both film and television.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Sally Field, Part 1

      aired: Fri, Nov 16, 2012

      The two-time Oscar winner describes her role as the first lady in one of this year's most talked about films, 'Lincoln.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Keira Knightley

      aired: Thu, Nov 15, 2012

      The Oscar-nominated actress outlines what attracted her to the role of Anna Karenina and talks about her upcoming projects.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer Frank Rich

      aired: Wed, Nov 14, 2012

      The former 'New York Times' Op-Ed columnist gives his take on election 2012.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Journalist Thomas Ricks

      aired: Tue, Nov 13, 2012

      The Pulitzer Prize winner explains his new book, 'The Generals,' and offers his thoughts on the resignation of Gen. David Petraeus.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Filmmaker Eugene Jarecki

      aired: Fri, Nov 9, 2012

      The filmmaker unpacks 'The House I Live In,' his documentary on America's longest war—the war on drugs.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Democracy Now! Host Amy Goodman

      aired: Fri, Nov 9, 2012

      The 'Democracy Now!' host looks ahead to the next four years, particularly for progressives, and discusses her book on politics, 'The Silenced Majority.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Talk show host Larry King

      aired: Thu, Nov 8, 2012

      The iconic talk show host weighs in on the results of the White House race.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Oliver Stone & Peter Kuznick, Part 2

      aired: Wed, Nov 7, 2012

      On election night, Tavis continues his conversation with the outspoken filmmaker and history professor as they help clarify U.S. history.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Oliver Stone & Peter Kuznick, Part 1

      aired: Tue, Nov 6, 2012

      The Oscar-winning filmmaker and noted historian explain their collaboration on the text and companion Showtime project, 'The Untold History of the United States,' and bring some historical perspective to this year's presidential race.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Jack Black

      aired: Sun, Nov 4, 2012

      The Golden Globe nominee reflects on his turn in the indie film, Bernie—a performance that’s getting much Oscar buzz.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Political Writer Jonathan Martin

      aired: Tue, Oct 30, 2012

      Tavis talks with POLITICO's senior political writer Jonathan Martin about the race for the White House.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Olympic gold medalist Allyson Felix

      aired: Fri, Oct 26, 2012

      One of the stars of the U.S. Olympic team at the London Games, Felix talks about her advocacy for a number of issues, including childhood obesity.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Educator Salman Khan

      aired: Fri, Oct 26, 2012

      The education pioneer relates his vision for the future, as detailed in his text, 'The One World Schoolhouse.'

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Journalist Adam Nagourney

      aired: Tue, Oct 23, 2012

      Following the final presidential debate, the veteran political journalist examines how the rest of the race for the White House might play out.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Michael Chiklis

      aired: Fri, Oct 19, 2012

      The Emmy-winning actor talks about his return to the small screen, in the new crime drama series, Vegas.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Comedian-actor D.L. Hughley

      aired: Thu, Oct 18, 2012

      The veteran funnyman comments on bringing comedy to social commentary on the world.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Author Peter Dreier

      aired: Wed, Oct 17, 2012

      The politics professor and author of "The 100 Greatest Americans of the 20th Century" examines the role of social justice issues in the presidential campaign.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Behavioral scientist Peter Ubel, M.D.

      aired: Wed, Oct 17, 2012

      The Duke University professor explains his groundbreaking work, detailed in the text, Critical Decisions.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Journalist John Heilemann

      aired: Tue, Oct 16, 2012

      New York magazine’s national affairs editor and Game Change author weighs in on the presidential campaign.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-writer-director Ethan Hawke

      aired: Fri, Oct 12, 2012

      The Oscar-nominated actor-writer-director reflects on making his latest feature, Sinister.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Foreign policy expert Phyllis Bennis

      aired: Thu, Oct 11, 2012

      The director of the Institute for Policy Studies’ New Internationalism Project assesses the impact of foreign policy on the presidential campaign.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Classical pianist Lang Lang

      aired: Thu, Oct 11, 2012

      The piano virtuoso explains why his latest CD is devoted entirely to the music of Chopin.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Filmmaker Ava DuVernay

      aired: Wed, Oct 10, 2012

      The winner of this year’s best director award at the Sundance Film Festival describes her new feature, Middle of Nowhere.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-writer Andrew McCarthy

      aired: Fri, Oct 5, 2012

      The actor-director recounts how and why he got into travel writing and shares stories from his new memoir, The Longest Way Home.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Hip-hop artist-actor T.I.

      aired: Fri, Oct 5, 2012

      The three-time Grammy winner discusses his latest projects, including his second novel, the new season of his TV show on VH1 and an upcoming CD.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Political journalist Ari Berman

      aired: Thu, Oct 4, 2012

      The Nation magazine’s political correspondent assesses the impact of Voter ID laws and the new era of politics.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Economist Jeffrey Sachs: October 2nd, 2012

      aired: Wed, Oct 3, 2012

      The world-renowned economist and co-founder of the nonprofit Millennium Promise Alliance explains his work on economic development and the fight against poverty.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former FDIC chair Sheila Bair

      aired: Tue, Oct 2, 2012

      The former FDIC chair talks about her role on the Systemic Risk Council and her assessment of the U.S. financial crisis, as detailed in her book Bull by the Horns.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress-producer Elizabeth Banks

      aired: Sun, Sep 30, 2012

      The actress-turned-producer describes her latest project, the feature film Pitch Perfect.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress-director-producer Penny Marshall

      aired: Fri, Sep 28, 2012

      The show business powerhouse reflects on her life and career, as described in her humorous memoir, My Mother Was Nuts.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter-activist Wyclef Jean

      aired: Wed, Sep 26, 2012

      The multiplatinum-selling artist discusses his memoir, Purpose: An Immigrant’s Story, and his love for his native Haiti.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Author Salman Rushdie

      aired: Tue, Sep 25, 2012

      The award-winning novelist recounts his experience in hiding due to a death threat, as detailed in his memoir, Joseph Anton.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress-author Jamie Lee Curtis

      aired: Sun, Sep 23, 2012

      The actress-author explains the premise of her 10th children’s book, My Brave Year of Firsts.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-activist Richard Gere

      aired: Fri, Sep 21, 2012

      The actor-activist talks about his latest film, the financial thriller Arbitrage, and his human rights work.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Tony Danza

      aired: Thu, Sep 20, 2012

      Danza recounts his experience as a high school English teacher, which he details in his text, I’d Like to Apologize to Every Teacher I Ever Had.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Dwight Yoakam

      aired: Tue, Sep 18, 2012

      The two-time Grammy winner talks about his latest project, “3 Pears”—his first new studio album in seven years.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Journalist-producer Hedrick Smith

      aired: Tue, Sep 18, 2012

      The Pulitzer Prize- and Emmy-winning journalist/producer talks about his text, Who Stole the American Dream?

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Jeremy Irons

      aired: Sun, Sep 9, 2012

      The Oscar-winning actor describes his latest film, The Words, the types of characters he likes to play and his ever-changing music endeavors.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Political consultant-author Benjamin Barber

      aired: Fri, Sep 7, 2012

      The CivWorld president and president-founder of the Interdependence Movement reflects on the DNC, joblessness in America and the power held by undecided voters.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former U.S. Secretary of Labor Robert Reich

      aired: Thu, Sep 6, 2012

      The former labor secretary and Beyond Change author discusses the upcoming unemployment report and his sense of mistakes made by the past two presidential administrations.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Commentator Arianna Huffington

      aired: Wed, Sep 5, 2012

      Tavis talks with The Huffington Post co-founder about party platform issues at this week’s Democratic National Convention.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Guitarist Ry Cooder

      aired: Tue, Sep 4, 2012

      The celebrated guitarist shares the inspiration behind his latest project, “Election Special,” and assesses the future of sociopolitical music.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Kyra Sedgwick

      aired: Fri, Aug 31, 2012

      The Emmy-winning star of The Closer dishes about the show’s conclusion after a seven-year run, Hollywood marriages and her new film, The Possession.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Economist Ben Stein

      aired: Fri, Aug 31, 2012

      The author of the new text, How to Really Ruin Your Financial Life and Portfolio, weighs in on abortion, the defense budget, the economy, poverty and how voters choose their candidate.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: War vet-writer Brian Castner

      aired: Sun, Aug 26, 2012

      The decorated military veteran and author of The Long Walk reflects on how his thought processes have changed as a result of his battlefield experiences in Iraq.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer Rubén Martínez

      aired: Fri, Aug 24, 2012

      The Emmy-winning journalist offers insight into how the West could tip the scales in the 2012 presidential election and shares how immigration is changing the narrative in the U.S. and lessons learned while writing his text, Desert America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Keanu Reeves

      aired: Thu, Aug 23, 2012

      Reeves dissects the gains and losses of technological advances and industry shifts in filmmaking, which he details in the documentary, Side by Side.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Comedian Jeff Foxworthy

      aired: Wed, Aug 22, 2012

      The popular comedian and host of GSN’s The American Bible Challenge discusses the new game show and lessons he hopes viewers will learn from it.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Consumer advocate Ralph Nader

      aired: Tue, Aug 21, 2012

      Tavis talks with the consumer and political activist about his campaign to raise the minimum wage.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Architect Frank Gehry – Part 2

      aired: Mon, Jul 23, 2012

      In part two of his conversation with Tavis, the world renowned architect discusses his earliest influences, the U.S. urban planning problem and the upcoming Dwight Eisenhower tower.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Architect Frank Gehry – Part 1

      aired: Fri, Jul 20, 2012

      The iconic architect tells stories of his childhood and youth, which include failing an art class in college, and explains his use of art and music in architecture.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Dwight Henry

      aired: Thu, Jul 19, 2012

      The first-time actor details his story of New Orleans café owner-turned-actor, in the film Beasts of the Southern Wild, and comments on his newfound respect for actors and his future movie plans.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Comedian-actor Jimmie Walker

      aired: Wed, Jul 18, 2012

      Walker discusses his career and behind-the-scenes happenings during his stint on Good Times and shares what it’s like to be known for the popular catchphrase—and the title of his memoir—Dy-no-mite.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: NCAA president Mark Emmert

      aired: Tue, Jul 17, 2012

      Tavis talks sports with the NCAA president, including a discussion on the potential fallout from the investigation into the Penn State scandal.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Chef Marcus Samuelsson

      aired: Mon, Jul 16, 2012

      The award-winning chef serves up a tell-all of his life: struggling with cultural identity, paving the way for diversity in the cooking world and making Harlem a hot spot for foodies—all described in his memoir, Yes Chef.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Journalist Paul Ingrassia

      aired: Fri, Jul 13, 2012

      The Pulitzer Prize winner examines the synonym of Detroit and the auto industry, as detailed in Engines of Change, and weighs in on whether the U.S. is doomed for a double-dip recession.”

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress-activist Mira Sorvino

      aired: Fri, Jul 13, 2012

      The Oscar-winning star of Union Square recounts the adrenaline rush of working on the indie film and explains how audiences can relate to it.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician Glenn Frey – Part 2

      aired: Thu, Jul 12, 2012

      In the final part of a two-night conversation, the six-time Grammy winner discusses how he’s changed over the years and his interest in writing a memoir about his work with the Eagles.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician Glenn Frey – Part 1

      aired: Wed, Jul 11, 2012

      The Eagles founding member reflects on the 40 years since the band got together and shares how and why he recorded his latest solo effort, “After Hours.”

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Elijah Wood

      aired: Mon, Jul 9, 2012

      Tavis talks with the busy actor about his latest projects, including his role in the FX series, Wilfred, now in its second season.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Journalist Rajiv Chandrasekaran

      aired: Mon, Jul 9, 2012

      Tavis talks with The Washington Post associate editor and best-selling author about his text on the war in Afghanistan, Little America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Ernest Borgnine

      aired: Mon, Jul 9, 2012

      The legendary entertainer discusses how working and acting helped him stay young.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Environmental activist Erin Brockovich

      aired: Sun, Jul 8, 2012

      Brockovich describes the water crisis in the U.S., her issues with the EPA and why she feels Americans live in a third world country—all of which are detailed in the documentary, Last Call at the Oasis.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Eddie Levert

      aired: Fri, Jul 6, 2012

      The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer reflects on 50 years with the O’Jays, fatherhood and losing his sons; he also talks about his debut solo album, “I Still Have It.”

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actors Cedric the Entertainer & Niecy Nash

      aired: Wed, Jul 4, 2012

      The husband-and-wife duo of TV Land’s The Soul Man discusses how the show’s plot parallels real life, whether they will push the envelope and their views on faith and religion.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Filmmaker Jonathan Demme

      aired: Mon, Jul 2, 2012

      The Oscar-winning filmmaker explains the backstory of his projects with rock icon Neil Young and his post-Hurricane Katrina documentary, I Am Carolyn Parker.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Peter Berg & Freddie Roach

      aired: Fri, Jun 29, 2012

      The Emmy-nominated director and legendary boxing trainer discuss the HBO docu-series On Freddie Roach, Roach’s battle with Parkinson’s disease and why people are addicted to sports.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Law professor Peter Edelman

      aired: Thu, Jun 28, 2012

      The Georgetown law professor and longtime anti-poverty advocate discusses his text, So Rich, So Poor, and examines the high poverty rates in the U.S.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Kristen Johnston

      aired: Wed, Jun 27, 2012

      The two-time Emmy winner shares highlights of her career, her battles with drug addiction and depression and why she wrote her memoir Guts.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Jeff Daniels

      aired: Tue, Jun 26, 2012

      Tavis talks with the Tony-nominated actor about his new series, HBO’s The Newsroom.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Songwriting duo Alan & Marilyn Bergman, Part 2

      aired: Mon, Jun 25, 2012

      The Bergmans reflect on writing the Good Times theme song and discuss the challenge of finding new ways to talk about love and the hip-hop generation’s influence on the next wave of writers.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Songwriting duo Alan & Marilyn Bergman, Part 1

      aired: Fri, Jun 22, 2012

      The legendary songwriters highlight stories and the evolution of writing, spanning their 50 years of working together, and share how Barbra Streisand became their muse.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Morgan Freeman, Part 2

      aired: Thu, Jun 21, 2012

      The award-winning actor and Through the Wormhole host weighs in on the presidential campaign and talks about his experiences working on The Dark Knight Rises.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Morgan Freeman, Part 1

      aired: Tue, Jun 19, 2012

      The Academy Award-winning actor explains why he never intends to write a memoir and discusses his acting influences and upcoming film, The Magic of Belle Isle.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Capt. Chesley Sullenberger

      aired: Mon, Jun 18, 2012

      The airline pilot of “Miracle on the Hudson” fame recalls the 2009 incident and life since, as written about in his text Making a Difference; he also talks about traits that come into play in a moment of crisis.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Shawn Colvin

      aired: Fri, Jun 15, 2012

      The multiple Grammy winner talks about her new CD, “All Fall Down,� and her candid new memoir, Diamond in the Rough, and reveals what she uses as her healing factors during times of clinical depression.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Sportswriter Frank Deford

      aired: Thu, Jun 14, 2012

      The Emmy and Peabody winner describes the evolution of sports over the length of his career and reflects on who he thinks is the greatest athlete of all time, as detailed in his memoir, Over Time.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor John Slattery

      aired: Wed, Jun 13, 2012

      The Emmy-nominated actor discusses the fifth season finale of AMC’s Mad Men, the evolution of the show’s depiction of women and life before fame from the award-winning series.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell

      aired: Tue, Jun 12, 2012

      Tavis talks with the retired Army general and former secretary of state about his new book, It Worked for Me: In Life and Leadership.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Blues guitarist Buddy Guy

      aired: Fri, Jun 8, 2012

      The six-time Grammy-winning musician shares why it took so long for him to record his own music and his mission to keep jazz clubs alive; he also details his memoir When I Left Home.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer Buzz Bissinger

      aired: Thu, Jun 7, 2012

      The Pulitzer Prize winner reveals poignant details about the family dynamic surrounding his mentally disabled son, as described in his memoir, Father’s Day, and discusses life after Friday Night Lights.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Toni Morrison

      aired: Wed, Jun 6, 2012

      Writer, Nobel Prize winner and Pulitzer Prize recipient Toni Morrison discusses her latest text, A Mercy.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Journalist Gail Collins

      aired: Tue, Jun 5, 2012

      Tavis talks with the New York Times columnist and best-selling author about her latest text, As Texas Goes…: How the Lone Star State Hijacked the American Agenda.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-filmmaker Kevin Costner, Part 2

      aired: Mon, May 28, 2012

      In the conclusion of a two-part conversation, Costner discusses his role in the History channel’s first scripted miniseries, Hatfields & McCoys, and his band’s companion CD. He also shares his experience of working with the late Whitney Houston and speaking at her funeral.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-filmmaker Kevin Costner, Part 1

      aired: Fri, May 25, 2012

      In part one of this two-night conversation, the two-time Oscar winner reflects on his body of work and the moment he fully committed to becoming a thespian and discloses the one thing he feels people would envy of him.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician Greg Allman

      aired: Thu, May 24, 2012

      The singer-songwriter reflects on the life experiences that inspired his text My Cross to Bear and the Allman Brothers’ contribution to music.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-writer Billy Bob Thornton

      aired: Wed, May 23, 2012

      The Academy Award winner-turned-author shares what finally convinced him to write his memoir, The Billy Bob Tapes: A Cave Full of Ghosts, and talks about life-changing events and his driving force.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former U.S. Senator Bill Bradley

      aired: Tue, May 22, 2012

      The best-selling author and former senator discusses his text We Can All Do Better, in which he assesses the state of the U.S., the toll placed on its people and what role each American can play to help the nation reach its full potential.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Michael Emerson

      aired: Thu, May 17, 2012

      The two-time Emmy winner and Person of Interest star discusses overcoming nerves about performing on stage, his thoughts on being known as a character actor and the type of role he fears most.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Carole King

      aired: Tue, May 15, 2012

      The prolific singer-songwriter reflects on her past songs and the inspiration for her art, as described in her memoir, A Natural Woman.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Ryan O’Neal

      aired: Sun, May 13, 2012

      The Oscar-nominated actor discusses media scrutiny of his parenting skills, his battle with different types of cancer and why he wrote his memoir, Both of Us: My Life with Farrah.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: TV exec Warren Littlefield

      aired: Fri, May 11, 2012

      The former president of NBC entertainment and architect of “Must See TV” analyzes the current need for quality television, as detailed in his new book Top of the Rock.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Harvard professor Michael Sandel

      aired: Wed, May 9, 2012

      The Harvard professor assesses whether morality is in play in U.S. markets and discusses his best-selling book, What Money Can’t Buy: The Moral Limits of Markets.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Pulitzer Prize winner Sheryl WuDunn

      aired: Tue, May 8, 2012

      Tavis talks with the foreign correspondent-turned-business exec and entrepreneur—and first Asian American to receive a Pulitzer—about her best-selling book, Half the Sky.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt

      aired: Mon, May 7, 2012

      The University of Virginia professor discusses his text The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion and expands upon his Moral Foundations theory across political party lines.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Damian Lewis

      aired: Mon, May 7, 2012

      The British actor reflects on portraying American history in Band of Brothers and weighs in on President Obama’s comment on Lewis’ latest star vehicle, Showtime’s Peabody Award-winning drama series Homeland.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Columnist-author Anna Quindlen

      aired: Fri, May 4, 2012

      The Pulitzer Prize-winning writer discusses her memoir, Lots of Candles, Plenty of Cake, shares her views on aging and offers insight on how certain women-related political issues will play out on the 2012 campaign trail.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Ed Helms

      aired: Thu, May 3, 2012

      The actor-comedian-writer discusses the 3rd annual L.A. Bluegrass Situation, his role on The Office and whether there will be another season for the hit NBC sitcom.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former education secretary Bill Bennett

      aired: Tue, May 1, 2012

      Tavis talks with the former education secretary, best-selling author and host of the syndicated radio show Morning in America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Steve Tyrell

      aired: Mon, Apr 30, 2012

      The Grammy-winning artist-producer-songwriter highlights his career and his R&B background and reflects on developing his own sound as an artist, as heard on his newest CD, "I'll Take Romance."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-writer Ayad Akhtar

      aired: Fri, Apr 27, 2012

      The actor-writer talks about the real-life experiences that inspired his first novel, American Dervish, relates Islam to Christianity and discusses his challenges as a storyteller to expose new truths that readers would not normally consider.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Author Judy Blume

      aired: Thu, Apr 26, 2012

      The award-winning and controversial author discusses book censorship in the Internet age, how she can continue to connect with children as she grows older and what's next on her agenda.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer Robert Draper

      aired: Wed, Apr 25, 2012

      The best-selling author explains the inspiration behind the title of his new book, Do Not Ask What Good We Do, comments on whether the media has an impact on Congress and shares his thoughts on this year's "freshman class" on Capitol Hill.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Frank Langella

      aired: Mon, Apr 23, 2012

      The Oscar nominee and three-time Tony winner discusses his memoir, Dropped Names, why he decided to tell his story through his relations with people and why he's been particularly selective in the roles he's chosen throughout his career.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Annie Potts

      aired: Fri, Apr 20, 2012

      The Emmy-nominated actress explains how she navigated her career after Designing Women and the influence her Southern and church upbringing had in her decision to take the role in the new comedy-drama GCB.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Journalist Noam Scheiber

      aired: Thu, Apr 19, 2012

      The senior editor of The New Republic reflects on President Obama’s first term, assesses whether the present administration has learned lessons about the economy and discusses his book, The Escape Artist.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Phil Donahue, Part 2

      aired: Wed, Apr 18, 2012

      Turning over his host seat to the dean of the TV talk show genre, Tavis and Dr. Cornel West explain their new text The Rich & the Rest of Us: A Poverty Manifesto.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Phil Donahue, Part 1

      aired: Tue, Apr 17, 2012

      The dean of the TV talk show genre turns the tables and questions Tavis and Dr Cornel West about the new book The Rich & the Rest of Us: A Poverty Manifesto

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Dancer-actor Mikhail Baryshnikov, Part 2

      aired: Thu, Apr 12, 2012

      The legendary Oscar-nominated dancer-actor continues his conversation with Tavis, describing the challenges of running a theater company and assessing why classic dance theater is still segregated.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Dancer-actor Mikhail Baryshnikov, Part 1

      aired: Wed, Apr 11, 2012

      In part one of a two-part conversation, Tavis talks with the multi-faceted dancer, who discusses his latest project, In Paris-and the first performance in which he speaks Russian-and recalls the first time he was booed after performing before a crowd.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Olympic gold medalist Janet Evans

      aired: Tue, Apr 10, 2012

      The four-time Olympic gold medalist and mother of two discusses her renewed love for swimming, balancing training with motherhood and how her return to the Olympics impacts her legacy.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Filmmaker Lawrence Kasdan

      aired: Mon, Apr 9, 2012

      The writer-director discusses the real-life inspiration behind his latest film, Darling Companion, and how he fares in an era when blockbuster films dominate the box office.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Iraq War veteran Paul K. Chappell

      aired: Fri, Apr 6, 2012

      The retired U.S. Army captain, peace activist and author of Peaceful Revolution describes being "pro-military, anti-war" and speculates on whether world peace is possible.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former lobbyist Jack Abramoff, Part 2

      aired: Thu, Apr 5, 2012

      In part two of his conversation with Tavis, the former lobbyist and author of Capitol Punishment explains what leads to corruption in politicians and the revolving door on Washington's K Street.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former lobbyist Jack Abramoff, Part 1

      aired: Wed, Apr 4, 2012

      In part 1 of a two-part conversation, the former lobbyist shares his thoughts on being referred to as an "orthodox Robin Hood" and discusses the conflicting feedback he's receiving for writing his book, Capitol Punishment.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Entrepreneur Earvin "Magic" Johnson

      aired: Tue, Apr 3, 2012

      Tavis talks with the NBA legend-turned-entrepreneur about his latest endeavors, including a new Broadway production, a new cable channel and his foray into Major League Baseball.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Made Visible : Women, Children & Poverty in America -...

      aired: Mon, Apr 2, 2012

      On the third and final night of a compelling discussion, the panelists' conversation includes recommendations for national action to move women and children out of poverty.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Made Visible: Women, Children & Poverty in America -...

      aired: Fri, Mar 30, 2012

      In the second of a three-part discussion, some of the most prominent females in the U.S. address issues around women, children and poverty in America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Made Visible: Women, Children & Poverty in America -...

      aired: Thu, Mar 29, 2012

      In Part 1 of a conversation on the rising numbers of women and children in poverty, panelists discuss the financial, social and economic disparities that women face in the U.S.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former U.S. Army Ranger Sean Parnell

      aired: Tue, Mar 27, 2012

      Author of the best seller Outlaw Platoon, Parnell shares the horrific event that he experienced on his first day of combat and discusses the need for more support for vets returning home.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson

      aired: Mon, Mar 26, 2012

      The Space Chronicles author explains why space is the ultimate frontier and comments on the future of U.S. space exploration.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer-producer Matthew Weiner

      aired: Fri, Mar 23, 2012

      The award-winning writer-producer discusses the Emmy-winning Mad Men series that he created and talks about the show's future with AMC.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Thomas Gibson

      aired: Thu, Mar 22, 2012

      The Criminal Minds star offers his take on what makes his show work and explains how diversity contributes to the show's success.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-actor Meat Loaf

      aired: Wed, Mar 21, 2012

      The Grammy-winning singer-actor explains why he chose "Hell in a Handbasket" as the title for his new CD and shares how he uses art to address the devolution of our culture.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Award-winning TV broadcaster Catherine Crier

      aired: Tue, Mar 20, 2012

      The Emmy-winning TV broadcaster, former judge and author of Patriot Acts talks about corporate money and politics and the need for the American people to get angry about things that matter to them.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Equal pay advocate Lilly Ledbetter

      aired: Mon, Mar 12, 2012

      The author of Grace and Grit, whose fight to gain equal pay for women in the workplace led to landmark legislation, recounts her poor upbringing in rural Alabama and discusses her years working at Goodyear.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Emmy-winning writer-producer David E. Kelley

      aired: Fri, Mar 9, 2012

      The prolific writer-producer and creator of Harry's Law discusses why so many TV viewers loathe lawyers, yet love legal dramas.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Cancer expert Dr. Otis Webb Brawley

      aired: Thu, Mar 8, 2012

      The renowned cancer expert shares why he wrote the provocative new book How We Do Harm: A Doctor Breaks Ranks About Being Sick in America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former U.S. senator Russ Feingold

      aired: Wed, Mar 7, 2012

      The former senator and author of While America Sleeps explains why he feels the U.S. has "gone to sleep on international issues" and offers his prediction on the outcome of the presidential campaign.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Morning Joe host Joe Scarborough

      aired: Tue, Mar 6, 2012

      The Morning Joe host and former GOP congressman from Florida weighs in on the Super Tuesday primaries.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Emmy-winning filmmaker Jay Roach

      aired: Mon, Mar 5, 2012

      The director and producer of Game Change, the new HBO dramatization of the 2008 presidential campaign, talks about VP candidate Sarah Palin and whether the filmmakers "went soft" on Sen. John McCain.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Harvard law professor Lani Guinier

      aired: Fri, Mar 2, 2012

      The Harvard law professor and noted author discusses the ongoing affirmative action debate as the U.S. Supreme Court agrees to reconsider the constitutionality of race-conscious college admissions.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Steven Nissen, M.D. & Marc Gillinov, M.D.

      aired: Thu, Mar 1, 2012

      Two of the leading heart experts in the U.S. and authors of Heart 411 describe the burden heart disease places on America's healthcare system and ways heart health can be improved.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Sinead O'Connor

      aired: Wed, Feb 29, 2012

      The singer-songwriter - whose new CD is "How About I Be Me (And You Be You)?"- explains why she wrote such a romantic album and shares who her muse was for this project.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Oscar Highlights

      aired: Tue, Feb 28, 2012

      Tavis revisits highlights of his conversations with several of this year's Oscar nominees.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: King of Otuam Peggielene Bartels

      aired: Fri, Feb 24, 2012

      The King of Otuam, Ghana and co-author of King Peggy discusses the changes she's made to her home village since becoming its first female ruler and shares the impact she's had on young girls.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-musician Steve Martin

      aired: Thu, Feb 23, 2012

      The multitalented comedian-actor-musician and author of The Ten, Make That Nine, Habits of Very Organized People. Make That Ten. explains what, artistically, he gets out of using Twitter and plays a tune from his Grammy-nominated bluegrass CD, "Rare Bird Alert."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer Pico Iyer

      aired: Tue, Feb 21, 2012

      The award-winning author of The Man Within My Head discusses the character that has haunted him over the years.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former ad exec Charlotte Beers

      aired: Tue, Feb 21, 2012

      Tavis talks with the history making former ad exec about her new text I'd Rather Be in Charge.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician-actor Steven Van Zandt

      aired: Fri, Feb 17, 2012

      The musician-actor and writer, exec producer and star of Lilyhammer shares how his series became the first original show on Netflix.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Journalist Thomas B. Edsall

      aired: Tue, Feb 14, 2012

      Tavis talks with the veteran journalist about his text The Age of Austerity: How Scarcity Will Remake American Politics.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Personal finance expert Suze Orman

      aired: Mon, Feb 13, 2012

      The Emmy-winning TV show host and best-selling author shares why she feels the credit scoring system is "broken" and discusses women in poverty.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actresses Viola Davis & Octavia Spencer

      aired: Fri, Feb 10, 2012

      The Oscar-nominated actresses passionately discuss their roles in The Help and have a spirited debate about the ambivalence many people have regarding their roles in the film.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Internet activist Wael Ghonim, Part 2

      aired: Thu, Feb 9, 2012

      Tavis concludes his two-part conversation with the Egyptian new media activist and former Google exec.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Internet activist Wael Ghonim, Part 1

      aired: Wed, Feb 8, 2012

      Tavis talks with the former Google executive who helped spark the 2011 Egyptian revolution.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former U.S. senator Chuck Hagel

      aired: Tue, Feb 7, 2012

      Tavis talks with the former senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations committee about U.S. foreign policy, the escalating violence in Syria and the possibility of an Israeli strike on Iran.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Writer-director-producer Michael Mann

      aired: Mon, Feb 6, 2012

      The co-exec producer of HBO's Luck reflects on why the writing is so addictive and challenging and shares what it's like to work with horses on the show.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Attorney-activist Connie Rice

      aired: Mon, Feb 6, 2012

      The veteran civil rights attorney, out with her memoir, Power Concedes Nothing, discusses why the poor have to make demands and hijack power.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Investigative journalist Michael Hastings

      aired: Thu, Feb 2, 2012

      The award-winning Rolling Stone writer and author of The Operators explains why he feels he received so much access from former ISAF commander, Gen. Stanley McChrystal.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Dr. Richard Jackson, UCLA School of Public Health

      aired: Wed, Feb 1, 2012

      The UCLA professor and host of the PBS series Designing Healthy Communities describes what it truly means to build a healthy community.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Seal

      aired: Mon, Jan 30, 2012

      The four-time Grammy winner, out with the new album "Soul 2," discusses his separation from Heidi Klum, shares the two songs that he believes are the best songs ever written and offers his thoughts on President Obama's singing voice.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Kathleen Turner, Part 2

      aired: Fri, Jan 27, 2012

      In part two of her conversation with Tavis, Turner reflects on the projects from her body of work that she absolutely loves.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Kathleen Turner, Part 1

      aired: Thu, Jan 26, 2012

      In the first of a two-part conversation, the Oscar- and Tony-nominated actress shares what she believes she has in common with Molly Ivins, the writer-humorist she portrays in the stage production Red Hot Patriot.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Terrence Howard

      aired: Wed, Jan 25, 2012

      The Oscar-nominated actor discusses his starring role in George Lucas' Red Tails and explains why he'll be disheartened if Black people don't show up in droves to support the film.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Etta James Tribute

      aired: Tue, Jan 24, 2012

      Tavis devotes tonight's show to the legacy of the three-time Grammy-winning blues matriarch.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-activist Sean Penn, Part 2

      aired: Mon, Jan 23, 2012

      In the final night of the two-part conversation, the Oscar-winning actor-director continues his discussion of the "miracle of the spirit of the Haitian people" and also reflects on this year's 30th anniversary of Fast Times at Ridgemont High.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-activist Sean Penn, Part 1

      aired: Fri, Jan 20, 2012

      The Oscar-winning actor and tireless human rights advocate-recently named ambassador-at-large of Haiti-offers his take on Haitian political leaders and discusses the crippling poverty that existed in the country before 2010's devastating earthquake.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Panel discussion, Part 3

      aired: Thu, Jan 19, 2012

      On the final night of a conversation on "Remaking America," panelists assess how the course of the U.S. can be altered, making it as good as its promise.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Panel discussion, Part 2

      aired: Wed, Jan 18, 2012

      In Part 2 of a roundtable discussion on "Remaking America," some of the country's most prominent advocates address the realities of dwindling opportunities in a politically paralyzed nation.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Panel discussion, Part 1

      aired: Tue, Jan 17, 2012

      In Part 1 of a conversation on "Remaking America," thought leaders wrestle with solutions for restoring the country's prosperity.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Bluegrass music superstar Alison Krauss

      aired: Mon, Dec 26, 2011

      The 26-time Grammy-winning singer-songwriter discusses what she feels has recently attracted artists to bluegrass and performs music from her new CD, Paper Airplane.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Robert Blake, Part 2

      aired: Fri, Dec 23, 2011

      The multiple Emmy winner continues his exclusive conversation with Tavis and shares the plan that he believes God has for his life.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Robert Blake, Part 1

      aired: Thu, Dec 22, 2011

      In part 1 of an exclusive two-part conversation, the Emmy-winning actor talks about the ghosts that haunt the living when they "get old" and the days he spent in jail before his acquittal on murder charges.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Angelina Jolie & Zana Marjanovic

      aired: Tue, Dec 20, 2011

      In the Land of Blood and Honey's writer-director and star discuss the emotional toll that it took on the performers and filmmakers to create a love story against the backdrop of the Bosnian War.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Film producer Roger Corman

      aired: Mon, Dec 19, 2011

      The legendary Hollywood producer-director discusses the new documentary about his life, Corman's World: Exploits of a Hollywood Rebel, and explains why he feels the state of independent filmmaking is "not good."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Film producer Harvey Weinstein

      aired: Wed, Dec 14, 2011

      The Oscar-winning producer explains why he decided to take a gamble on one of his new projects, the black-and-white silent film The Artist.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former DC schools chief Michelle Rhee

      aired: Tue, Dec 13, 2011

      Tavis talks education with the former chancellor of the Washington, DC school system.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-activist Harry Belafonte, Part 2

      aired: Fri, Dec 2, 2011

      The Tony- and Emmy-winning singer, actor, activist and author of the memoir My Song continues his conversation with Tavis and discusses faith, spirituality, war and peace.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-activist Harry Belafonte, Part 1

      aired: Thu, Dec 1, 2011

      In part 1 of a two-part conversation, the pioneering singer, actor, activist and author of My Song: A Memoir discusses McCarthyism, Communism and the price he pays for being a man of conscience.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Reggae pioneer Jimmy Cliff

      aired: Fri, Nov 18, 2011

      The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame reggae legend explains the spiritual concept behind the title of his new album, "Sacred Fire," and shares how he was able to help put his genre of music on the international stage.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Reggae pioneer Jimmy Cliff

      aired: Fri, Nov 18, 2011

      The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame reggae legend explains the spiritual concept behind the title of his new album, "Sacred Fire," and shares how he was able to help put his genre of music on the international stage.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Reggae pioneer Jimmy Cliff

      aired: Fri, Nov 18, 2011

      The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame reggae legend explains the spiritual concept behind the title of his new album, "Sacred Fire," and shares how he was able to help put his genre of music on the international stage.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriters Carole King and Louise Goffin

      aired: Thu, Nov 17, 2011

      The prolific singer-songwriter and her producer-singer-songwriter daughter discuss King's new CD, "A Holiday Carole," and explain why working together was "like butter."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriters Carole King and Louise Goffin

      aired: Thu, Nov 17, 2011

      The prolific singer-songwriter and her producer-singer-songwriter daughter discuss King's new CD, "A Holiday Carole," and explain why working together was "like butter."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriters Carole King and Louise Goffin

      aired: Thu, Nov 17, 2011

      The prolific singer-songwriter and her producer-singer-songwriter daughter discuss King's new CD, "A Holiday Carole," and explain why working together was "like butter."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriters Carole King and Louise Goffin

      aired: Thu, Nov 17, 2011

      The prolific singer-songwriter and her producer-singer-songwriter daughter discuss King's new CD, "A Holiday Carole," and explain why working together was "like butter."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Ellen Barkin

      aired: Wed, Nov 16, 2011

      The actress and Another Happy Day producer explains why it took 10 years before she ever auditioned and discusses the rejection that she faced early in her career because of her looks.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Ellen Barkin

      aired: Wed, Nov 16, 2011

      The actress and Another Happy Day producer explains why it took 10 years before she ever auditioned and discusses the rejection that she faced early in her career because of her looks.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Ellen Barkin

      aired: Wed, Nov 16, 2011

      The actress and Another Happy Day producer explains why it took 10 years before she ever auditioned and discusses the rejection that she faced early in her career because of her looks.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Ellen Barkin

      aired: Wed, Nov 16, 2011

      The actress and Another Happy Day producer explains why it took 10 years before she ever auditioned and discusses the rejection that she faced early in her career because of her looks.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Cellist Yo-Yo Ma

      aired: Mon, Nov 14, 2011

      The 16-time Grammy-winning cellist explains what traveling has done for his music and performs a track from his new bluegrass album "The Goat Rodeo Sessions."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Cellist Yo-Yo Ma

      aired: Mon, Nov 14, 2011

      The 16-time Grammy-winning cellist explains what traveling has done for his music and performs a track from his new bluegrass album "The Goat Rodeo Sessions."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Cellist Yo-Yo Ma

      aired: Mon, Nov 14, 2011

      The 16-time Grammy-winning cellist explains what traveling has done for his music and performs a track from his new bluegrass album "The Goat Rodeo Sessions."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Cellist Yo-Yo Ma

      aired: Mon, Nov 14, 2011

      The 16-time Grammy-winning cellist explains what traveling has done for his music and performs a track from his new bluegrass album "The Goat Rodeo Sessions."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Cellist Yo-Yo Ma

      aired: Mon, Nov 14, 2011

      The 16-time Grammy-winning cellist explains what traveling has done for his music and performs a track from his new bluegrass album "The Goat Rodeo Sessions."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Mickey Rourke

      aired: Fri, Nov 11, 2011

      The Oscar nominee and star of the fantasy adventure film Immortals explains why he continues to play such physical roles.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Mickey Rourke

      aired: Fri, Nov 11, 2011

      The Oscar nominee and star of the fantasy adventure film Immortals explains why he continues to play such physical roles.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Mickey Rourke

      aired: Fri, Nov 11, 2011

      The Oscar nominee and star of the fantasy adventure film Immortals explains why he continues to play such physical roles.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Mickey Rourke

      aired: Fri, Nov 11, 2011

      The Oscar nominee and star of the fantasy adventure film Immortals explains why he continues to play such physical roles.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Mickey Rourke

      aired: Fri, Nov 11, 2011

      The Oscar nominee and star of the fantasy adventure film Immortals explains why he continues to play such physical roles.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: ACLU president Susan Herman

      aired: Thu, Nov 10, 2011

      The ACLU president and author of Taking Liberties discusses the Patriot Act, 10 years later, and explains why it's time to start looking at the law's provisions.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-writer John Lithgow

      aired: Thu, Nov 10, 2011

      The award-winning actor and best-selling author discusses the creation of his memoir Drama: An Actor's Education.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: ACLU president Susan Herman

      aired: Thu, Nov 10, 2011

      The ACLU president and author of Taking Liberties discusses the Patriot Act, 10 years later, and explains why it's time to start looking at the law's provisions.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-writer John Lithgow

      aired: Thu, Nov 10, 2011

      The award-winning actor and best-selling author discusses the creation of his memoir Drama: An Actor's Education.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: ACLU president Susan Herman

      aired: Thu, Nov 10, 2011

      The ACLU president and author of Taking Liberties discusses the Patriot Act, 10 years later, and explains why it's time to start looking at the law's provisions.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-writer John Lithgow

      aired: Thu, Nov 10, 2011

      The award-winning actor and best-selling author discusses the creation of his memoir Drama: An Actor's Education.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: ACLU president Susan Herman

      aired: Thu, Nov 10, 2011

      The ACLU president and author of Taking Liberties discusses the Patriot Act, 10 years later, and explains why it's time to start looking at the law's provisions.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-writer John Lithgow

      aired: Thu, Nov 10, 2011

      The award-winning actor and best-selling author discusses the creation of his memoir Drama: An Actor's Education.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-writer John Lithgow

      aired: Thu, Nov 10, 2011

      The award-winning actor and best-selling author discusses the creation of his memoir Drama: An Actor's Education.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: ACLU president Susan Herman

      aired: Thu, Nov 10, 2011

      The ACLU president and author of Taking Liberties discusses the Patriot Act, 10 years later, and explains why it's time to start looking at the law's provisions.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Commentator & columnist Juan Gonzalez

      aired: Thu, Nov 3, 2011

      The Democracy Now! co-host and co-author of News for All the People explains why Americans don't have a free market in the media and tackles the racial politics of media ownership.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Commentator & columnist Juan Gonzalez

      aired: Thu, Nov 3, 2011

      The Democracy Now! co-host and co-author of News for All the People explains why Americans don't have a free market in the media and tackles the racial politics of media ownership.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Commentator & columnist Juan Gonzalez

      aired: Thu, Nov 3, 2011

      The Democracy Now! co-host and co-author of News for All the People explains why Americans don't have a free market in the media and tackles the racial politics of media ownership.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Commentator & columnist Juan Gonzalez

      aired: Thu, Nov 3, 2011

      The Democracy Now! co-host and co-author of News for All the People explains why Americans don't have a free market in the media and tackles the racial politics of media ownership.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Commentator & columnist Juan Gonzalez

      aired: Thu, Nov 3, 2011

      The Democracy Now! co-host and co-author of News for All the People explains why Americans don't have a free market in the media and tackles the racial politics of media ownership.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Novelist-playwright Ariel Dorfman

      aired: Wed, Nov 2, 2011

      The acclaimed Chilean novelist, playwright and human rights activist shares a fascinating passage from his new memoir Feeding on Dreams: Confessions of an Unrepentant Exile.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Novelist-playwright Ariel Dorfman

      aired: Wed, Nov 2, 2011

      The acclaimed Chilean novelist, playwright and human rights activist shares a fascinating passage from his new memoir Feeding on Dreams: Confessions of an Unrepentant Exile.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Novelist-playwright Ariel Dorfman

      aired: Wed, Nov 2, 2011

      The acclaimed Chilean novelist, playwright and human rights activist shares a fascinating passage from his new memoir Feeding on Dreams: Confessions of an Unrepentant Exile.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Novelist-playwright Ariel Dorfman

      aired: Wed, Nov 2, 2011

      The acclaimed Chilean novelist, playwright and human rights activist shares a fascinating passage from his new memoir Feeding on Dreams: Confessions of an Unrepentant Exile.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Novelist-playwright Ariel Dorfman

      aired: Wed, Nov 2, 2011

      The acclaimed Chilean novelist, playwright and human rights activist shares a fascinating passage from his new memoir Feeding on Dreams: Confessions of an Unrepentant Exile.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Novelist Jackie Collins

      aired: Mon, Oct 31, 2011

      The best-selling novelist author discusses her new book Goddess of Vengeance.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Novelist Jackie Collins

      aired: Mon, Oct 31, 2011

      The best-selling novelist author discusses her new book Goddess of Vengeance.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Novelist Jackie Collins

      aired: Mon, Oct 31, 2011

      The best-selling novelist author discusses her new book Goddess of Vengeance.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Novelist Jackie Collins

      aired: Mon, Oct 31, 2011

      The best-selling novelist author discusses her new book Goddess of Vengeance.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Novelist Jackie Collins

      aired: Mon, Oct 31, 2011

      The best-selling novelist author discusses her new book Goddess of Vengeance.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: NBA legend Jerry West

      aired: Fri, Oct 28, 2011

      The Basketball Hall of Famer shares stories from his memoir, West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: NBA legend Jerry West

      aired: Fri, Oct 28, 2011

      The Basketball Hall of Famer shares stories from his memoir, West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: NBA legend Jerry West

      aired: Fri, Oct 28, 2011

      The Basketball Hall of Famer shares stories from his memoir, West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: NBA legend Jerry West

      aired: Fri, Oct 28, 2011

      The Basketball Hall of Famer shares stories from his memoir, West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: NBA legend Jerry West

      aired: Fri, Oct 28, 2011

      The Basketball Hall of Famer shares stories from his memoir, West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Law professor Anita Hill

      aired: Thu, Oct 27, 2011

      Law professor reflects on the 20 years since her testimony in Justice Clarence Thomas' confirmation hearings and discusses her latest text.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Law professor Anita Hill

      aired: Thu, Oct 27, 2011

      Law professor reflects on the 20 years since her testimony in Justice Clarence Thomas' confirmation hearings and discusses her latest text.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Law professor Anita Hill

      aired: Thu, Oct 27, 2011

      Law professor reflects on the 20 years since her testimony in Justice Clarence Thomas' confirmation hearings and discusses her latest text.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Law professor Anita Hill

      aired: Thu, Oct 27, 2011

      Law professor reflects on the 20 years since her testimony in Justice Clarence Thomas' confirmation hearings and discusses her latest text.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Law professor Anita Hill

      aired: Thu, Oct 27, 2011

      Law professor reflects on the 20 years since her testimony in Justice Clarence Thomas' confirmation hearings and discusses her latest text.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician-producer Nile Rodgers

      aired: Wed, Oct 26, 2011

      Multiple Grammy winner shares the backstory of his hit song "Le Freak" and talks about award-winning songs that he produced for Diana Ross and Madonna.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician-producer Nile Rodgers

      aired: Wed, Oct 26, 2011

      Multiple Grammy winner shares the backstory of his hit song "Le Freak" and talks about award-winning songs that he produced for Diana Ross and Madonna.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician-producer Nile Rodgers

      aired: Wed, Oct 26, 2011

      Multiple Grammy winner shares the backstory of his hit song "Le Freak" and talks about award-winning songs that he produced for Diana Ross and Madonna.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician-producer Nile Rodgers

      aired: Wed, Oct 26, 2011

      Multiple Grammy winner shares the backstory of his hit song "Le Freak" and talks about award-winning songs that he produced for Diana Ross and Madonna.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician-producer Nile Rodgers

      aired: Wed, Oct 26, 2011

      Multiple Grammy winner shares the backstory of his hit song "Le Freak" and talks about award-winning songs that he produced for Diana Ross and Madonna.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez

      aired: Thu, Oct 20, 2011

      Father-son actors discuss their latest collaboration, The Way, and Estevez shares what it was like to write a role for his dad.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez

      aired: Thu, Oct 20, 2011

      Father-son actors discuss their latest collaboration, The Way, and Estevez shares what it was like to write a role for his dad.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez

      aired: Thu, Oct 20, 2011

      Father-son actors discuss their latest collaboration, The Way, and Estevez shares what it was like to write a role for his dad.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez

      aired: Thu, Oct 20, 2011

      Father-son actors discuss their latest collaboration, The Way, and Estevez shares what it was like to write a role for his dad.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez

      aired: Thu, Oct 20, 2011

      Father-son actors discuss their latest collaboration, The Way, and Estevez shares what it was like to write a role for his dad.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Antonio Banderas

      aired: Wed, Oct 19, 2011

      The star of The Skin I Live In and Puss in Boots explains how he came to be an actor in the U.S. when he already enjoyed success and fame in Spain and shares the secret of making a Hollywood marriage work.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Antonio Banderas

      aired: Wed, Oct 19, 2011

      The star of The Skin I Live In and Puss in Boots explains how he came to be an actor in the U.S. when he already enjoyed success and fame in Spain and shares the secret of making a Hollywood marriage work.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Antonio Banderas

      aired: Wed, Oct 19, 2011

      The star of The Skin I Live In and Puss in Boots explains how he came to be an actor in the U.S. when he already enjoyed success and fame in Spain and shares the secret of making a Hollywood marriage work.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Antonio Banderas

      aired: Wed, Oct 19, 2011

      The star of The Skin I Live In and Puss in Boots explains how he came to be an actor in the U.S. when he already enjoyed success and fame in Spain and shares the secret of making a Hollywood marriage work.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor Antonio Banderas

      aired: Wed, Oct 19, 2011

      The star of The Skin I Live In and Puss in Boots explains how he came to be an actor in the U.S. when he already enjoyed success and fame in Spain and shares the secret of making a Hollywood marriage work.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 5

      aired: Mon, Oct 17, 2011

      The last night of discussions on poverty in America The Fight of the Poor directs attention to groups and communities organizing a movement to end poverty across the country Tavis also talks with Jim Wallis founder of Sojourners magazine and chair of the World Economic Forums Global Agenda Council on Faith

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 5

      aired: Mon, Oct 17, 2011

      The last night of discussions on poverty in America The Fight of the Poor directs attention to groups and communities organizing a movement to end poverty across the country Tavis also talks with Jim Wallis founder of Sojourners magazine and chair of the World Economic Forums Global Agenda Council on Faith

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 5

      aired: Mon, Oct 17, 2011

      The last night of discussions on poverty in America The Fight of the Poor directs attention to groups and communities organizing a movement to end poverty across the country Tavis also talks with Jim Wallis founder of Sojourners magazine and chair of the World Economic Forums Global Agenda Council on Faith

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 5

      aired: Mon, Oct 17, 2011

      The last night of discussions on poverty in America The Fight of the Poor directs attention to groups and communities organizing a movement to end poverty across the country Tavis also talks with Jim Wallis founder of Sojourners magazine and chair of the World Economic Forums Global Agenda Council on Faith

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 5

      aired: Mon, Oct 17, 2011

      The last night of discussions on poverty in America The Fight of the Poor directs attention to groups and communities organizing a movement to end poverty across the country Tavis also talks with Jim Wallis founder of Sojourners magazine and chair of the World Economic Forums Global Agenda Council on Faith

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 4

      aired: Fri, Oct 14, 2011

      Part 4 of this special series on poverty, "Nothing Moves Without Us," examines jobs and the unemployment crisis. Tavis also talks with the director of Columbia's Earth Institute and co-founder of Millennium Promise Alliance Jeffrey Sachs.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 4

      aired: Fri, Oct 14, 2011

      Part 4 of this special series on poverty, "Nothing Moves Without Us," examines jobs and the unemployment crisis. Tavis also talks with the director of Columbia's Earth Institute and co-founder of Millennium Promise Alliance Jeffrey Sachs.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 4

      aired: Fri, Oct 14, 2011

      Part 4 of this special series on poverty, "Nothing Moves Without Us," examines jobs and the unemployment crisis. Tavis also talks with the director of Columbia's Earth Institute and co-founder of Millennium Promise Alliance Jeffrey Sachs.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 4

      aired: Fri, Oct 14, 2011

      Part 4 of this special series on poverty, "Nothing Moves Without Us," examines jobs and the unemployment crisis. Tavis also talks with the director of Columbia's Earth Institute and co-founder of Millennium Promise Alliance Jeffrey Sachs.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 4

      aired: Fri, Oct 14, 2011

      Part 4 of this special series on poverty, "Nothing Moves Without Us," examines jobs and the unemployment crisis. Tavis also talks with the director of Columbia's Earth Institute and co-founder of Millennium Promise Alliance Jeffrey Sachs.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 3

      aired: Thu, Oct 13, 2011

      Tonight's discussion on poverty in America - "No Room at the Inn" - continues with Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and a focus on the housing crisis.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 3

      aired: Thu, Oct 13, 2011

      Tonight's discussion on poverty in America - "No Room at the Inn" - continues with Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and a focus on the housing crisis.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 3

      aired: Thu, Oct 13, 2011

      Tonight's discussion on poverty in America - "No Room at the Inn" - continues with Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and a focus on the housing crisis.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 3

      aired: Thu, Oct 13, 2011

      Tonight's discussion on poverty in America - "No Room at the Inn" - continues with Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and a focus on the housing crisis.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 3

      aired: Thu, Oct 13, 2011

      Tonight's discussion on poverty in America - "No Room at the Inn" - continues with Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and a focus on the housing crisis.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 2

      aired: Wed, Oct 12, 2011

      Part 2 of the weeks Poverty Tour shows puts the spotlight on the new poor. Around the theme of I Had Everything Tavis also talks with Vicki B Escarra CEO of Feeding America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 2

      aired: Wed, Oct 12, 2011

      Part 2 of the weeks Poverty Tour shows puts the spotlight on the new poor. Around the theme of I Had Everything Tavis also talks with Vicki B Escarra CEO of Feeding America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 2

      aired: Wed, Oct 12, 2011

      Part 2 of the weeks Poverty Tour shows puts the spotlight on the new poor. Around the theme of I Had Everything Tavis also talks with Vicki B Escarra CEO of Feeding America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 2

      aired: Wed, Oct 12, 2011

      Part 2 of the weeks Poverty Tour shows puts the spotlight on the new poor. Around the theme of I Had Everything Tavis also talks with Vicki B Escarra CEO of Feeding America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 2

      aired: Wed, Oct 12, 2011

      Part 2 of the weeks Poverty Tour shows puts the spotlight on the new poor. Around the theme of I Had Everything Tavis also talks with Vicki B Escarra CEO of Feeding America.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 1

      aired: Tue, Oct 11, 2011

      Tavis begins this week of shows on poverty in the US with a theme of Suffering to Speak in which he and Princeton professor Dr Cornel West explain why they felt it was important to embark upon their 11 city 11 state Poverty Tour this past summer

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 1

      aired: Tue, Oct 11, 2011

      Tavis begins this week of shows on poverty in the US with a theme of Suffering to Speak in which he and Princeton professor Dr Cornel West explain why they felt it was important to embark upon their 11 city 11 state Poverty Tour this past summer

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 1

      aired: Tue, Oct 11, 2011

      Tavis begins this week of shows on poverty in the US with a theme of Suffering to Speak in which he and Princeton professor Dr Cornel West explain why they felt it was important to embark upon their 11 city 11 state Poverty Tour this past summer

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 1

      aired: Tue, Oct 11, 2011

      Tavis begins this week of shows on poverty in the US with a theme of Suffering to Speak in which he and Princeton professor Dr Cornel West explain why they felt it was important to embark upon their 11 city 11 state Poverty Tour this past summer

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Poverty Tour Part 1

      aired: Tue, Oct 11, 2011

      Tavis begins this week of shows on poverty in the US with a theme of Suffering to Speak in which he and Princeton professor Dr Cornel West explain why they felt it was important to embark upon their 11 city 11 state Poverty Tour this past summer

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: President of Liberia Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

      aired: Fri, Oct 7, 2011

      The first woman ever elected head of state in Africa describes her abduction by soldiers during the coup and how she won the election. She also explains the name of her memoir and talks about the future of her country.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: President of Liberia Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

      aired: Fri, Oct 7, 2011

      The first woman ever elected head of state in Africa describes her abduction by soldiers during the coup and how she won the election. She also explains the name of her memoir and talks about the future of her country.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: President of Liberia Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

      aired: Fri, Oct 7, 2011

      The first woman ever elected head of state in Africa describes her abduction by soldiers during the coup and how she won the election. She also explains the name of her memoir and talks about the future of her country.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: President of Liberia Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

      aired: Fri, Oct 7, 2011

      The first woman ever elected head of state in Africa describes her abduction by soldiers during the coup and how she won the election. She also explains the name of her memoir and talks about the future of her country.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: President of Liberia Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

      aired: Fri, Oct 7, 2011

      The first woman ever elected head of state in Africa describes her abduction by soldiers during the coup and how she won the election. She also explains the name of her memoir and talks about the future of her country.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Peace activist Leymah Gbowee

      aired: Thu, Oct 6, 2011

      Liberian native and author of Mighty Be Our Powers discusses the importance of and challenges faced by women in politics and the significance of the nation's first woman president.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Peace activist Leymah Gbowee

      aired: Thu, Oct 6, 2011

      Liberian native and author of Mighty Be Our Powers discusses the importance of and challenges faced by women in politics and the significance of the nation's first woman president.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Peace activist Leymah Gbowee

      aired: Thu, Oct 6, 2011

      Liberian native and author of Mighty Be Our Powers discusses the importance of and challenges faced by women in politics and the significance of the nation's first woman president.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Peace activist Leymah Gbowee

      aired: Thu, Oct 6, 2011

      Liberian native and author of Mighty Be Our Powers discusses the importance of and challenges faced by women in politics and the significance of the nation's first woman president.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai Tribute

      aired: Tue, Oct 4, 2011

      Tavis pays tribute to one of Kenya's most recognizable women.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Entertainer Tony Bennett

      aired: Tue, Oct 4, 2011

      The "singer's singer" discusses Amy Winehouse, whose last recorded song is on his new CD, "Duets II," and shares the one regret he has about the time he spent with a late songstress.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Entertainer Tony Bennett

      aired: Tue, Oct 4, 2011

      The "singer's singer" discusses Amy Winehouse, whose last recorded song is on his new CD, "Duets II," and shares the one regret he has about the time he spent with a late songstress.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai Tribute

      aired: Tue, Oct 4, 2011

      Tavis pays tribute to one of Kenya's most recognizable women.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Gloria Estefan

      aired: Tue, Oct 4, 2011

      The seven-time Grammy Award-winning superstar-whose new CD is "Miss Little Havana"shares how she's been able to balance her career with raising children and reflects on her 33-year marriage.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Environmentalist Wangari Maathai

      aired: Tue, Sep 27, 2011

      Environmental activist and Nobel laureate discusses her time in the U.S. during the civil rights era, the negative media attention on Africa and challenges for the African citizenry.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Jazz saxophonist Sonny Rollins

      aired: Mon, Sep 26, 2011

      The jazz great-and recently named 2011 Kennedy Center Honors recipient-talks about his new album "Road Shows, Vol. 2" and explains why, at age 81, he still practices every day.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Journalist Ron Suskind

      aired: Thu, Sep 22, 2011

      The Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist shares what he learned about President Obama from their hour-long conversation, which was part of the research for the new book, Confidence Men.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Filmmaker Michael Moore

      aired: Tue, Sep 20, 2011

      The Academy Award winner talks about his new memoir, Here Comes Trouble: Stories from My Life.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former U.S. attorney Douglas Jones

      aired: Wed, Sep 7, 2011

      Jones discusses his work prosecuting the suspects in the re-opened case of the '63 church bombing in Birmingham, AL that killed four girls and the curious case that he's now involved in with the father of one of those little girls.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician Dave Stewart

      aired: Sat, Sep 3, 2011

      The acclaimed musician discusses his role in the rock all-star group SuperHeavy and his new solo album, "The Blackbird Diaries;" he also performs two tracks from that CD.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Law professor-author Randall Kennedy

      aired: Fri, Sep 2, 2011

      The Harvard law professor and author of The Persistence of the Color Line explains why he believes that the nation's first Black president is not going to be a transformative president when it comes to race.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Nick Ashford Tribute

      aired: Wed, Aug 31, 2011

      Tavis pays tribute to the lyricist half of the legendary singing and songwriting duo Ashford & Simpson.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 2

      aired: Sat, Aug 27, 2011

      In advance of this weekend's official dedication of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, Tavis continues his conversations with some of Dr. King's friends and with scholars who study his legacy.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Part 1

      aired: Fri, Aug 26, 2011

      This installment of the primetime special Tavis Smiley Reports examines the forgotten agenda of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-songwriter Lenny Kravitz

      aired: Wed, Aug 24, 2011

      The four-time Grammy-winner discusses his new album, "Black and White America," and explains why he feels this project is the best work he's ever done.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Economy

      aired: Tue, Aug 16, 2011

      In the first show of this week's special broadcasts on the People's Republic of China, Tavis discusses the country's economic and technology boom with Victor Yuan, board chair of China's most prestigious polling firm, and with venture capitalist Kai Fu Lee (pictured left). CEO and chair of Innovation Works and one of the "godfathers" of Chinese technology.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Hilary Swank

      aired: Fri, Jul 29, 2011

      Two-time Oscar winner and star-exec producer of the feature film Conviction explains why her career has included so many real-life stories and shares which film roles have scared her the most.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Opera singer Jessye Norman

      aired: Mon, Jul 25, 2011

      Legendary opera singer, who opens the L.A. MUSE/IQUE concert series this month, reflects on some of the performances in her career that she deems classic.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Roundtable

      aired: Mon, Jul 18, 2011

      On the final night of the week's look at the People's Republic of China, Tavis hosts a panel panel of prominent Chinese Americans for a wide-ranging discussion about the country, including the good and the bad of its economic boom, the environment, human rights and the complexity of U.S.-China relations.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Education

      aired: Fri, Jul 15, 2011

      In this fourth episode of the special series on the People's Republic of China - the final program on the road - Tavis talks in depth with some of the students at one of China's top schools.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Hip-Hop Culture

      aired: Thu, Jul 14, 2011

      In tonight's show, a black entrepreneur shares the backstory of his successful pilgrimage from North Carolina to Shanghai and his unique perspective on chinese culture and the role "race" plays in this once isolated country.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: The Challenges

      aired: Wed, Jul 13, 2011

      In tonight's continuing series on China, Tavis talks environmental issues with Kongjian Yu and examines some of the challenges facing modern China. He also takes an inside look at the lives of migrant workers and their children and their struggle to better their lives.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Author Iyanla Vanzant

      aired: Mon, Jul 11, 2011

      Motivational speaker shares the painful stories of losing her daughter to a rare form of colon cancer and her grandmothers mental illness.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-activist Don Cheadle

      aired: Mon, Jul 11, 2011

      The Oscar-nominated actor, who exec-produces and stars in The Guard, explains why it gets harder every year to make movies.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Innocence Project Panel Discussion Part 2

      aired: Wed, Jul 6, 2011

      Tavis continues his conversation on the work being done by Northwestern University. Rev. Jesse Jackson's Rainbow PUSH Coalition and others in Illinois to combat false convictions.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Radio show host Michael Krasny

      aired: Wed, Jul 6, 2011

      The popular talk show host, San Francisco State professor and author of Spiritual Envy: An Agnostic's Quest describes the experiences that caused him to go from spiritual believer to doubter.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Innocence Project Panel Discussion Part 1

      aired: Fri, Jul 1, 2011

      In the first of a two-part conversation, Tavis joins Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr. and four men who, cmbined, spent more than 50 years behind bars-despite their innocence.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Economist Dr. Julianne Malveaux

      aired: Tue, Jun 28, 2011

      Tavis talks with economist and Bennett College president about her text Surviving and Thriving: 365 Facts in Black Economic History.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger

      aired: Tue, Jun 21, 2011

      Tavis talks with the former U.S. Secretary of State about his new text, On China.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Environmental advocate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

      aired: Mon, Jun 20, 2011

      The environmentalist, who appears in the documentary The Last Mountain about the fight over coal, discusses the lack of government transparency and shares whether elective office is in his future.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former talk show host Larry King

      aired: Thu, Jun 16, 2011

      In part 1 of his conversation with the former talk show host, Tavis talks with King about his new book, Truth Be Told: Off the Record about Favorite Guests, Memorable Moments, Funniest Jokes, and a Half Century of Asking Questions.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress-playwright Anna Deavere Smith

      aired: Wed, Jun 15, 2011

      Pulitzer Prize nominee describes the extensive research she conducted for her latest play, Let Me Down Easy, which is about healthcare and included interviews with more than 300 people.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician Barry Manilow

      aired: Fri, Jun 10, 2011

      Music icon reflects on his career success and demonstrates why he's ranked as the top Adult Contemporary chart artist of all time by performing "Bring on Tomorrow" from his new CD, "15 Minutes" his first original album in 10 years.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actor-comedian Dick Van Dyke

      aired: Wed, May 25, 2011

      One of the greats of TV's golden age reflects on his extraordinary career and talks about his memoir, My Lucky Life In and Out of Show Business.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: R&B Artist Bobby Brown

      aired: Fri, May 20, 2011

      Grammy-winning R&B artist discusses his new CD, "The Masterpiece".

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: TV Icon Tom Selleck

      aired: Tue, May 17, 2011

      Tavis talks with Emmy-winning TV icon and Blue Bloods star Tom Selleck.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Journalist Bill Moyers

      aired: Mon, May 16, 2011

      Tavis talks with award-winning broadcast journalist Bill Moyers about his latest text, Bill Moyers Journal: The Conversation Continues.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Betty White

      aired: Fri, May 13, 2011

      Tavis talks with veteran actress-turned-author Betty White about her candid new memoir, If You Ask Me (And of Course You Won't).

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Civil Rights Activist Diane Nash

      aired: Wed, May 11, 2011

      Tavis talks with civil rights activist Diane Nash--one of the people featured in American Experience's "Freedom Riders" documentary.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Singer-Songwriter Raphael Saadiq

      aired: Tue, May 10, 2011

      Tavis talks with Grammy-winning neo-soul singer-songwriter Raphael Saadiq, who also performs a track from his new CD, "Stone Rollin'."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Movie Executive Harvey Weinstein

      aired: Fri, Apr 29, 2011

      Tavis talks with award-winning movie mogul Harvey Weinstein about his latest film, the animated feature Hoodwinked Too! Hood vs. Evil, and his career as co-founder of both Miramax Films and The Weinstein Company.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Billionaire Financier and Philanthropist George Soros

      aired: Thu, Apr 28, 2011

      Tavis talks with billionaire financier and philanthropist George Soros, founder and chairman of Open Society Foundations, about his life, his career and the latest financial news.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: CBS Evening News Anchor Katie Couric

      aired: Wed, Apr 27, 2011

      In New York, Tavis talks with CBS Evening News anchor Katie Couric about her broadcasting career, her advocacy work for cancer research and her new book, The Best Advice I Ever Got.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg

      aired: Tue, Apr 26, 2011

      Tavis talks with the city's Mayor Michael Bloomberg about the state of education in the U.S. and in the city he helms.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Dr. Augustus White

      aired: Fri, Apr 22, 2011

      Pioneering surgeon and professor at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Augustus White, talks about his memoir Seeing Patients

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Musician Emmylou Harris

      aired: Thu, Apr 21, 2011

      Tavis talks with 12 time Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris about her latest CD, her 21st studio album; "Hard Bargain."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Award-winning Investigative Reporter William Cohan

      aired: Tue, Apr 19, 2011

      Award-winning investigative reporter and former investment banker William Cohan assesses the impact of Standard & Poor's downgrading its credit outlook for the U.S. and discusses Goldman Sachs, the subject of his new text, Money and Power.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Joseph Lelyveld

      aired: Wed, Apr 13, 2011

      Tavis talks with Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Joseph Lelyveld, author of the controversial new biography Great Soul: Mahatma Gandhi and His Struggle with India

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Legendary talk-show host Larry King

      aired: Mon, Apr 11, 2011

      In part 2 of a two-part conversation, legendary talk-show host Larry King continues his first interview since retiring from CNN, a first for Tavis on his own show.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Legendary talk-show host Larry King

      aired: Fri, Apr 8, 2011

      In part 1 of a two-part conversation, legendary talk-show host Larry King turns the tables on Tavis and conducts his first interview since retiring from CNN, a first for Tavis on his own show.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Author Gayle Tzemach Lemmon

      aired: Mon, Apr 4, 2011

      Gayle Tzemach Lemmon, author of The Dressmaker of Khair Khana, discusses women entrepreneurs in Afghanistan and explains why nothing changes the dynamic in a family like a woman earning an income.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former chancellor of the DC school system Michelle Rhee

      aired: Wed, Mar 30, 2011

      Michelle Rhee, former chancellor of the DC school system, addresses the USA Today investigation that questions the integrity of standardized test scores at schools under her watch.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Twitter Co-Founder Biz Stone

      aired: Thu, Mar 24, 2011

      Biz Stone, co-founder and creative director for the uberpopular microblogging site Twitter, discusses the monetary and social value of the site, which turns five this week, boasts 200 million accounts and employs 400 people.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Award-winning writer Mark Richard

      aired: Wed, Mar 9, 2011

      Award-winning writer Mark Richard, author of the memoir House of Prayer No. 2, reflects on his spiritual journey and explains why he believes if we survive our childhood, we have a story to tell

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Author Susan Jacoby

      aired: Mon, Mar 7, 2011

      Susan Jacoby, author of Never Say Die: The Myth and Marketing of the New Old Age, discusses the plight of America's aging baby boomers and what that means for the U.S. as a whole.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former Assistant Secretary of Defense Bing West

      aired: Thu, Mar 3, 2011

      Tavis talks with Bing West, former assistant secretary of defense in the Reagan administration and author of The Wrong War: Grit, Strategy, and the Way Out of Afghanistan.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Motown Legend Smokey Robinson

      aired: Wed, Mar 2, 2011

      Motown legend Smokey Robinson-out with a new CD, "Now and Then"-shares why Beethoven is one of his favorite composers of all time, discusses his recovery from drug addiction and offers advice to his "little brother" El DeBarge, who recently returned to rehab for his own addiction.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Jazz musician Wynton Marsalis

      aired: Wed, Feb 16, 2011

      Jazz heavyweight and nine-time Grammy winner Wynton Marsalis discusses the long-term price Americans are paying for abandoning arts in education.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Yale Law Professor Amy Chua

      aired: Fri, Feb 11, 2011

      Yale Law professor Amy Chua clears up misconceptions surrounding her controversial new memoir on parenting: Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Tom Hooper: 1/28

      aired: Sat, Jan 29, 2011

      Tavis talks with filmmaker Tom Hooper.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Anthony Hopkins: 1/27

      aired: Fri, Jan 28, 2011

      Oscar-winning actor Anthony Hopkins discusses his upcoming films The Rite and Thor.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: America's Next Chapter: 1/20

      aired: Fri, Jan 21, 2011

      Panelists include: Maria Teresa Kumar, Cornel West, and John S. Chen.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: America's Next Chapter: 1/19

      aired: Thu, Jan 20, 2011

      Panelists include: Maria Bartiromo, Dana Milbank, and David Brody,

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: America's Next Chapter: 1/18

      aired: Wed, Jan 19, 2011

      Panelists include: Dr. Cornel West, Arianna Huffington, and David Frum.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Clarence B. Jones: 1/17

      aired: Tue, Jan 18, 2011

      Tavis talks with Clarence B. Jones, speechwriter for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Jeff Bridges: Monday, 1/10

      aired: Tue, Jan 11, 2011

      Tavis talks with Oscar-winning actor Jeff Bridges, who has two features in release: TRON: Legacy and the much-talked-about True Grit remake.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Patti Smith: Tuesday, 12/21

      aired: Wed, Dec 22, 2010

      Singer, songwriter, visual artist,and rock icon Patti Smith shares what people can learn from her relationship with Robert Mapplethorpe.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Stevie Wonder (Part 2)

      aired: Tue, Dec 21, 2010

      In part two of a fascinating conversation, music icon Stevie Wonder reflects on getting his start at Motown, putting his life into his lyrical content and making a positive difference in the world.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Stevie Wonder (Part 1)

      aired: Fri, Dec 17, 2010

      In the first of a two-part conversation, the legendary Stevie Wonder talks about advocating for people with disabilities and giving back - including his 15th Annual House Full of Toys Benefit Concert - and shares a few backstories of the lyrics and titles of some of his hit songs.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Dudamel: Conducting a Life

      aired: Mon, Dec 6, 2010

      The 4th installment of Tavis Smiley Reports offers a candid look into the world of star conductor Gustavo Dudamel.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Music impresario Quincy Jones

      aired: Mon, Dec 6, 2010

      Music impresario talks about his new CD, and his new book, and explains how music became the mother he never had.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Grammy-winning singer Natalie Cole

      aired: Wed, Dec 1, 2010

      Grammy-winning singer Cole shares the dramatic story of her illness.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: and Emmy-winning actor Robert Duvall

      aired: Tue, Nov 23, 2010

      Oscar- and Emmy-winning actor discusses independent filmmaking and his funeral.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Comedian and commentator Dennis Miller

      aired: Wed, Nov 17, 2010

      Miller shares his thoughts on taxes, WMDs, President Obama, Bill and Hillary Clinton stand-up comedy.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Motivational speaker Iyanla Vanzant

      aired: Tue, Nov 16, 2010

      Motivational speaker shares the painful stories of losing her daughter to a rare form of colon cancer.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Time magazine Washington bureau chief Michael Duffy

      aired: Thu, Nov 4, 2010

      Michael Duffy offers his assessment of why Democrats are keeping such a low post-election profile.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Actress Phylicia Rashad

      aired: Tue, Nov 2, 2010

      Actress Phylicia Rashad describes her character in the new feature film, For Colored Girls.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former Peter, Paul and Mary members: Peter Yarrow; Noel Paul Stookey

      aired: Mon, Nov 1, 2010

      Peter Yarrow & Noel Paul Stookey are two-thirds of the '60s folk trio Peter, Paul & Mary, sing to Tavis.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Former Colombian presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt interview

      aired: Fri, Oct 29, 2010

      The author of "Even Silence Has an End: My Six Years of Captivity in the Colombian Jungle" talks of her journey.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Joseph Wilson; Valerie Plame Wilson 10/26/10

      aired: Wed, Oct 27, 2010

      Former diplomat and his wife share the details of their journey from scandal in Washington to rebuilding their lives.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: 10/25/10

      aired: Tue, Oct 26, 2010

      Pres. Carter discusses his new book, the lack of bipartisanship in D.C. and the Supreme Court ruling on campaign finance.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: 10/21/10

      aired: Thu, Oct 21, 2010

      Multiple Emmy winner discusses his ability to bring shows to TV networks that are innovative.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: 10/15/10

      aired: Mon, Oct 18, 2010

      The musician discusses the triumphs of his careers, the lean years and what he learned along the way.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Condoleezza Rice 10/13/10

      aired: Thu, Oct 14, 2010

      Condoleezza Rice shares the story of her childhood & explains why the foreign service of the U.S. shouldn't be so white.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Jamie Lee Curtis 10/8/10

      aired: Fri, Oct 8, 2010

      The actress describes the childhood "trauma" that she believes has led her to write books for 4-year-olds.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: 10/7/10

      aired: Thu, Oct 7, 2010

      Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist discusses the legacy of the Great Migration of African Americans.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Geoffrey Canada; Davis Guggenheim 9/28/10

      aired: Wed, Sep 29, 2010

      Filmmakers discuss Waiting for Superman, which sheds light on the U.S. public education crisis.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Ken Burns 9/24/10

      aired: Mon, Sep 27, 2010

      The filmmaker explains why baseball makes for such a poignant American documentary topic.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Philip Seymour Hoffman

      aired: Fri, Sep 24, 2010

      The actor describes what it's like being a filmmaker as well.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: 9/24/10

      aired: Fri, Sep 24, 2010

      The award-winning actor explains how the upcoming season of "House" takes a bold step that is ultimately a gamble.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: 9/22/10

      aired: Thu, Sep 23, 2010

      The actor/director explains why some films are making money these days and others aren't.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: 9/21/10

      aired: Wed, Sep 22, 2010

      The director explains why it is important in his new stage play, to tell the story of Jamestown.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Highlight

      aired: Fri, Sep 10, 2010

      The singer/songwriter explains why in her career and personal life, she is the poster child for infinite possibility.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: 9/9/10

      aired: Thu, Sep 9, 2010

      The tennis champion and author of "Open" reveals what the next phase of his life and career will entail.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Friday, 9/3/10

      aired: Sat, Sep 4, 2010

      Tavis revisits highlights of conversations with some of this year's Emmy winners.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Norah Jones: Tuesday, 31/8/2010

      aired: Wed, Sep 1, 2010

      The singer/songwriter discusses her embrace of change; from her latest album and new band to her short hairstyle.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Adbulrahman and Kathy Zeitoun

      aired: Sat, Aug 28, 2010

      New Orleans residents reflect on both the hardships of Hurricane Katrina and the stereotypes surrounding their Muslim faith.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Dr. Norman Francis

      aired: Fri, Aug 27, 2010

      As the 5th anniversary of Katrina approaches, one of New Orleans' most prominent residents, views the ups and downs of the city's 5-year journey.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Max Lucado: Thursday, 8/19/10

      aired: Fri, Aug 20, 2010

      Minister and award-winning Christian writer Max Lucado, author of "Outlive Your Life," explains why we really lead a better life when we're living for others.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Gov. Charlie Crist: Wednesday, 8/18/10

      aired: Thu, Aug 19, 2010

      Florida Gov. Charlie Crist talks about the impact of the Gulf Coast oil spill on his state, the Tea Party and his bid for the U.S. Senate as an independent candidate.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Ken Follett: Tuesday, 8/17/10

      aired: Wed, Aug 18, 2010

      Wales-born novelist Ken Follett talks about his new book, "Fall of Giants" and the feature film "White Wedding", which he produced.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: John Mellencamp: Monday, 8/16/10

      aired: Tue, Aug 17, 2010

      Grammy-winning Rock and Roll Hall of Famer John Mellencamp discusses his new album, "No Better Than This," and the 25th anniversary of Farm Aid. He also performs, "Save Some Time to Dream."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: New Orleans: Been in the Storm Too Long

      aired: Thu, Jul 22, 2010

      Tavis Smiley Reports teams with Oscar-winning director Jonathan Demme to revisit New Orleans and capture the mood and spirit of the city and some of its most resilient residents five years after Hurricane Katrina and the levee breech.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Venus Williams: Friday, 7/16/10

      aired: Sat, Jul 17, 2010

      Tennis superstar Venus Williams talks about her new book on harnessing your competitive spirit, "Come to Win."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Sean Payton: Tuesday, 7/13/10

      aired: Wed, Jul 14, 2010

      Sean Payton, head coach of the Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints, shares how he gets his players beyond distractions and to buy into the vision that "it's not just about football." He also talks about his new book, "Home Team."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Bettye LaVette: Friday, 7/9/10

      aired: Sat, Jul 10, 2010

      Grammy-nominated soul singer-songwriter Bettye LaVette reflects on how people are discovering her, after all of her years in the business, and explains why she's not bitter.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Oliver Stone: Friday, 7/2/10

      aired: Sat, Jul 3, 2010

      Oscar- and Emmy-winning filmmaker Oliver Stone explains why he made the controversial new documentary "South of the Border."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Laurence Fishburne: Thursday, 7/1/10

      aired: Fri, Jul 2, 2010

      Award-winning actor Laurence Fishburne shares how he balances reprising the role he originated on Broadway as the first African American Supreme Court justice in "Thurgood" with his star turn in TV's "CSI."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Tim Wise: Monday, 6/28/10

      aired: Tue, Jun 29, 2010

      "Colorblind" author Tim Wise weighs in on the ongoing debates over the ideas of a post-racial America and solving racial tension by not talking so much about it.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Taylor Hackford, Helen Mirren: 6/25/10

      aired: Sat, Jun 26, 2010

      Oscar-winning Hollywood power couple, director Taylor Hackford and actress Helen Mirren, share what is was like filming their new project, "Love Ranch."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Tom Petty: Tuesday, 6/15/10

      aired: Wed, Jun 16, 2010

      Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Tom Petty offers advice for people wanting to go into the music business and talks about getting back into the studio after so long and his newest project, "Mojo."

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Wes Moore: Thursday, 5/27/10

      aired: Fri, May 28, 2010

      Wes Moore, author of "The Other Wes Moore," explores why he and his namesake went in such different directions.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Michael Douglas: Friday, 5/21/10

      aired: Mon, May 24, 2010

      Oscar-winning actor-producer Michael Douglas talks about getting older in Hollywood, whether there's an advantage to being a second generation star, his new films, "Solitary Man"d and "Money Never Sleeps", and weighs in on the state of the union.

    • Episode

      Tavis Smiley: Garry Shandling: Thursday, 5/20/10

      aired: Fri, May 21, 2010

      Actor-comedian Garry Shandling discusses his first writing job, switching to stand-up and his role in the blockbuster film, "Iron Man 2."

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