Beloved former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis has sadly passed away following a 7-year battle with breast cancer. Her sister, Lakshmi Emory, broke the news via Facebook on June 11th, writing, “She’s free, and in His heavenly arms. Lord, rest her soul.”

In a recent essay published in “Essence” before her passing, Lewis emphasized the importance of preserving your health, noting that “prevention is the real cure” for cancer. Urging women to pay close attention to their bodies, she leaves behind a legacy that advocates for health awareness. Here’s a closer look at her journey and the message about breast cancer she leaves behind.

Ananda Lewis MTV

Born March 21st, 1973, in San Diego, California, Ananda Lewis built a very successful career for herself as a television host and journalist. Her warmth and sharp intellect made her a staple in the media landscape from the late 90s into the 2000s. 

She first gained attention as a host on BET’s “Teen Summit.” The purpose-driven show tackled real issues facing young Black audiences, such as substance abuse, education, peer pressure, and racism. Her ability to evoke emotion while speaking compassionately to young audiences quickly earned her respect in the industry and laid the foundation for her reputation as a trusted media voice.

Things took a major turn when she joined MTV in the late 90s, becoming one of the network’s most prominent on-air personalities. As a VJ and host of various MTV specials, she soon became a household name. Lewis interviewed some of the biggest stars in music and entertainment, while also covering major cultural moments. In 2001, she launched “The Ananda Lewis Show,” a self-titled daytime talk show centered on empowerment, emotional healing, and social issues. She always wanted her work to be an extension of her humanitarian spirit. Though the show was short-lived, it further cemented her legacy as a thoughtful, socially-conscious media figure.

Ananda Lewis Cause of Death

Due to a fear of radiation, Lewis had not been getting regular mammograms. She was then shocked to learn she had stage III breast cancer in 2018.

“My plan at first was to get out excessive toxins in my body,” she said on a CNN roundtable discussion, avoiding her doctor’s encouragement to get a double mastectomy. “I felt like my body is intelligent, I know that to be true. Our bodies are brilliantly made. I decided to keep my tumor and try to work it out of my body a different way.”

Keeping the tumor had caused it to metastasize, evolving from stage III to stage IV.

“I wish I could go back,” she admitted. “It’s important for me to admit where I went wrong with this.”

She was an advocate for women getting cancer screenings as soon as necessary, eventually losing her battle against cancer at age 52.

Ananda Lewis Children

Lewis is survived by her 14-year-old son, whom she shared with Will Smith’s younger brother, Harry Smith. She gave birth to Langston in 2011, though she and her husband opted to keep their home and family life private. Smith is the CEO of Smith Global Media, opting for a less high-profile career route than his Oscar-winning brother. Ananda’s passing leaves behind a deep grief not only for her family and loved ones, but for the countless Black women across the globe who grew up inspired by Ananda’s light and journalistic prowess. As her legacy lives on, her story may hopefully serve as encouragement for women to prioritize their well-being.