The public broadcaster's 32-page response to Smiley's lawsuit includes witness statements and argues that Smiley violated its morals clause. As Michael O'Connell reports, "Smiley has been very public in his denial of sexual harassment allegations — allegations that took him off the air just weeks after a similar scenario saw Charlie Rose kicked off the broadcaster. Smiley has also said no complaints had been filed. But, among the more interesting pieces in the filing, is the detail that Smiley informed PBS' third-party investigator that he was the subject of two workplace discrimination or harassment/retaliation claims. The host also admits to 'probably' telling sex jokes in the workplace and that he 'may' have sent pornographic images to subordinates." PBS is also seeking $1.9 million in returned salary plus unspecified damages.
TOPICS: Tavis Smiley, PBS, Legal, Sexual Misconduct