Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis Dies at 52 After Battle With Breast Cancer

Ananda Lewis, the former MTV host and media personality, has died at the age of 52 following a long battle with breast cancer.

Her death was confirmed by her sister, Lakshmi, in a Facebook post that read, “She’s free, and in His heavenly arms.”

Ananda rose to fame in the 1990s as a host on BET’s Teen Summit before becoming a household name on MTV, where she fronted popular shows like Total Request Live and Hot Zone. Her charisma and connection with youth culture made her one of the defining media figures of the era.

In 2001, Lewis launched The Ananda Lewis Show and later worked as a correspondent on The Insider. She also appeared in TLC’s home improvement show While You Were Out and later pursued a career in carpentry.

In 2020, Ananda publicly revealed that she had been battling Stage III breast cancer, explaining that she had avoided mammograms for years due to concerns about radiation. By 2024, the illness had progressed to Stage IV. She later admitted regretting her delay in seeking medical treatment.

Throughout her cancer journey, Ananda was candid about the emotional and physical toll of the disease, becoming an advocate for early detection and health awareness—especially among Black women, who are statistically at higher risk of dying from breast cancer.

Ananda is survived by her son, Langston, whom she shared with her husband, Harry Smith, brother of actor Will Smith. Her legacy as a cultural icon, advocate, and voice for truth will be long remembered.