
12/06/2025
🕊️ Rest in Power, Ananda Lewis (1973–2025) 🕊️
A voice of a generation. A queen of culture. A fierce advocate. 💔
We’re heartbroken to share that Ananda Lewis, former MTV VJ, talk show host, activist, and beloved media personality, has passed away at 52 after a brave battle with breast cancer.
Ananda first captured our hearts as a host on Teen Summit, empowering young Black voices on BET. She later rose to stardom on MTV, becoming a staple on shows like Total Request Live and Hot Zone—interviewing icons like Destiny’s Child, Kobe Bryant, Britney Spears, and Brandy. 🖤
In 1999, The New York Times called her “the hip-hop generation’s reigning It Girl.” But Ananda was more than that—she used her platform for change, moderating forums on school violence and racism, and never shied away from the truth.
In her own words:
"We come to this life, have experiences—and then we go. When it’s time for me to go, I want to be able to look back and say, 'I did that exactly how I wanted to.'"
🕯️ A Howard University alum, artist, mother, sister, friend, and fearless woman—we honor her legacy and her message: “Prevention is the real cure.” 💪🏽🎗️
Thank you for the impact, the inspiration, and the love, Ananda. You will never be forgotten. 💐👑