The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Ananda Lewis, a former MTV VJ known for her vibrant presence on shows like Total Request Live and Hot Zone. Lewis passed away at the age of 52 after a prolonged struggle with breast cancer, as confirmed by her sister, Lakshmi Emory.
In a heartfelt Facebook post on June 11, Emory shared the news, writing, “She’s free, and in His heavenly arms. Lord, rest her soul.” The specific cause of death has not been disclosed, but Lewis had been open about her cancer diagnosis, which she revealed in 2020 as stage 3 breast cancer.
Over the past four years, Lewis opted to pursue alternative treatment methods, opting not to undergo a double mastectomy. In an October 2024 interview with CNN, she discussed her decision, stating, “My plan at first was to get out excessive toxins in my body… I felt like my body is intelligent.” Unfortunately, her condition worsened, and she later disclosed that the cancer had metastasized, reaching stage 4.
Reflecting on her journey, Lewis expressed regret about her treatment choices, saying, “I wish I could go back… It’s important for me to admit where I went wrong with this.” In an essay published in Essence earlier this year, she emphasized the importance of living authentically and recognizing the temporary nature of life. “We come to this life, have experiences—and then we go,” she wrote.
Throughout her battle, Lewis advocated for cancer prevention and encouraged others to prioritize their health. “I don’t want to spend one more minute than I have to suffering unnecessarily,” she stated, expressing her desire to look back on her life with satisfaction.
Ananda Lewis is survived by her 14-year-old son, Langston, whom she shared with Will Smith’s brother, Harry Smith. Her passing marks a significant loss for the MTV community and her many fans who admired her warmth and dedication to raising awareness about health issues. As tributes pour in, Lewis will be remembered not only for her contributions to television but also for her courage and advocacy in the face of adversity.
