Tributes Pour In for Ananda Lewis, Beloved MTV Host Who Passed Away at 52

Ananda Lewis: A Life Remembered

Former MTV VJ and talk show host Ananda Lewis has passed away at the age of 52 after a brave and prolonged struggle with breast cancer. Her sister, Lakshmi Lewis, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook on June 11, stating, “She is free, in His heavenly arms,” alongside a touching black-and-white photo of Ananda. She concluded with a heartfelt, “Lord, rest her soul.”

In the late 1990s, Ananda Lewis became a prominent figure on MTV, captivating audiences as the host of popular shows like Hot Zone and Total Request Live. In 2001, she transitioned from MTV to launch The Ananda Lewis Show, a syndicated talk program that tackled social issues and garnered critical acclaim. The New York Times once dubbed her the IT Girl of the hip-hop generation, highlighting her strong connection with young viewers nationwide.

Following her passing, numerous friends, fans, and colleagues from the entertainment industry expressed their sorrow. Writer and activist Kevin Powell shared a tribute on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Rest in peace, Ananda Lewis, my sister, friend, fellow MTV alumni. You were marvellous and lovely altogether.” MTV also released a statement mourning her loss, noting, “Ananda was instrumental in creating a generation of music lovers with her on-air hosting and interviews.”

In 2020, Lewis publicly revealed her breast cancer diagnosis on Instagram, sharing that she had been diagnosed with stage III invasive carcinoma. She admitted to postponing routine mammograms due to her fear of radiation. After consulting a breast specialist in January 2019, she underwent a biopsy, which confirmed the diagnosis of HER2-negative stage 3 breast cancer that was ER/PR positive.

Despite the daunting diagnosis, Lewis opted for alternative treatment methods instead of a double mastectomy, a choice she discussed during a CNN roundtable with journalist Stephanie Elam and host Sara Sidner in October 2023. Unfortunately, this decision resulted in the cancer progressing to stage IV.

Beyond her on-screen presence, Ananda Lewis will be remembered for her authenticity, bravery, and unwavering dedication to empowering individuals, particularly young women of color. Her legacy in media and the impactful discussions she fostered about resilience, identity, and health will continue to inspire many.