Walmart returns as major underwriter through 2015
LOS ANGELES, Calif. (BLACK PR WIRE) –– TAVIS SMILEY, which airs weeknights on PBS, has been renewed for two years, it was announced today by Beth Hoppe, PBS Chief Programming Executive and General Manager, General Audience Programming. The extension will take TAVIS SMILEY, now in its 10th season, through 2015. Entering its 11th season in January 2014, TAVIS SMILEY airs on approximately 97 percent of PBS stations in more than 200 markets, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington, DC, and Atlanta. “I am excited to continue with such a strong broadcasting platform as PBS,” said Smiley. “My team and I are proud of what we’ve accomplished over the past 10 seasons and look forward to bringing our loyal viewers more in-depth conversations as we head into the 11th season. I want to thank Walmart for its generous and long-standing support.” “TAVIS SMILEY continues to be an important asset for PBS,” said Hoppe. “Tavis and his colleagues produce shows that bring an intellectual richness to our audience with the mix of news and entertainment. Tavis’ tremendous curiosity, passion and understanding are clear in every interview he takes on – PBS is proud to be his television home.” Walmart, which has funded TAVIS SMILEY throughout its 10 years on PBS, will continue to underwrite the series for these additional seasons. “We are proud to extend our relationship with Tavis, his team and PBS,” said Tony Rogers, Walmart’s Senior Vice President, Marketing. “Our long-term association is a testament to Tavis’ engaging interview style that has yielded thought-provoking and entertaining conversations with an eclectic group of newsmakers.” TAVIS SMILEY has garnered acclaim for its balance of news and entertainment. Marking 20 years in broadcasting this year, the eponymous host has been included in the group of the “20 people changing how Americans get their news.” It was recently announced that he will be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 24, 2014.
