Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis Passes Away At 52

Wed, June 11, 2025 at 5:49 PM

Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis Passes Away At 52

Source: Paul Archuleta / Getty

We are sad to report that former TV personality Ananda Lewis has passed away at the age of 52, following a brave six-year battle with breast cancer.

Her sister Lakshmi confirmed her passing on Facebook in a post shared on Wednesday, June 11.

"She's free, and in His heavenly arms," she wrote, alongside a series of broken heart emojis and a black and white portrait of Lewis. "Lord, rest her soul

Ananda Lewis spent decades in the public eye, carving her place as a respected media personality. Known for her intelligence, charisma, and authenticity, Lewis rose to fame in the late '90s and early 2000s as a host on BET's Teen Summit and later as a prominent VJ on MTV, hosting Total Request Live and Hot Zone.

Her work resonated particularly with young audiences, as she tackled social issues, music, and culture with depth and relatability. Lewis eventually hosted her own nationally syndicated talk show, The Ananda Lewis Show, solidifying her reputation as a skilled interviewer and advocate for meaningful dialogue.

Though her career in media flourished, Lewis stepped back from the spotlight to focus on personal interests, including carpentry and parenting. However, her most impactful role may have come in recent years as she opened up about her battle with breast cancer, a fight she revealed publicly in 2020.

Diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, Lewis shared that she had delayed regular mammograms, a decision she now warns against. Initially diagnosed in 2019, Lewis was advised to get a double mastectomy. She chose not to undergo the surgery, opting to take a more holistic approach.

Her candor about her diagnosis and treatment aimed to inspire others, particularly women of color, to take proactive steps for their health. "If I can help one woman avoid what I'm going through, it'll be worth it," she said in a heartfelt video posted on social media.

Unfortunately, in 2024, Lewis revealed in a CNN roundtable discussion that the cancer progressed to Stage 4.

"That scan showed that I had this kind of up my spine, through my hip, almost everywhere but my brain," Lewis said during the roundtable discussion. "I've never been in pain like that in my life."

"I don't get afraid of things," Lewis continued. "I was just like, 'Fudge, man, I really thought I had this.' I was frustrated. I was a little angry at myself."

Ananda Lewis' legacy extends far beyond her television career. Her openness about her health struggles and her unwavering commitment to educating others have made her a powerful voice in the fight against breast cancer. Through her honesty and resilience, Lewis inspired and empowered countless individuals, proving that her influence is as impactful as it is enduring.