LOS ANGELES (AP) – Ananda Lewis, the beloved former host of MTV and BET, has passed away at the age of 52 after a prolonged battle with breast cancer. Her sister, Lakshmi Emory, confirmed Lewis's death in a Facebook post on Wednesday, stating, “She's free, and in His heavenly arms. Lord, rest her soul.”
Born in San Diego, Lewis made a significant impact on television during the 1990s, particularly as the host of BET's “Teen Summit.” This show addressed crucial issues facing Black youth and featured various notable guests, including community leaders, entertainers, and politicians. During her tenure, Lewis garnered an NAACP Image Award for her ability to secure high-profile interviews with personalities such as Kobe Bryant, Tupac Shakur, and then-first lady Hillary Clinton.
In 1997, Lewis transitioned to MTV, becoming a prominent host and veejay on shows like “MTV Live,” “Hot Zone,” and the iconic “Total Request Live.” This career shift was met with mixed reactions, as Lewis herself acknowledged some backlash but remained committed to personal growth and opportunity. She emphasized to her audience the importance of living fully and taking advantage of life's chances, saying, “be your best and take advantage of every opportunity.”
Lewis's career expanded further when she launched her own syndicated talk show, “The Ananda Lewis Show,” in 2001. Although the show was only on the air for one season, she continued to remain active in the industry as a correspondent for “The Insider,” which was a spinoff of “Entertainment Tonight.”
Throughout her life, Lewis openly shared her journey with breast cancer, having publicly announced her diagnosis in 2020. Initially diagnosed at stage 3, her condition worsened to stage 4 by the previous year. She had been dealing with the illness for six years and faced a difficult decision regarding treatment, choosing initially to pursue alternative methods over a recommended double mastectomy. However, she later recognized this approach as misguided and became an advocate for regular mammogram screenings.
In her heartfelt message to others, Lewis asserted the critical importance of early detection for breast cancer, urging women to prioritize their health: “I need you to share this with the women in your life who may be as stubborn as I was about mammograms, and I need you to tell them that they have to do it. Early detection, especially for breast cancer, changes your outcome. It can save their life.”
Lewis's contributions to television and her advocacy for cancer awareness leave a lasting impact, embodying her spirit of warmth and authenticity that resonated with audiences throughout her career. Her death is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of health awareness, particularly concerning breast cancer. She will be remembered for her vibrant personality and commitment to inspiring others.
