Ananda Lewis, the former MTV VJ, passed away at 52, with the news shared by Lakshmi Emory on Facebook. Emory, who called Lewis a “phenomenal sister,” expressed heartfelt condolences, stating, “She’s free, and in His heavenly arms.” However, no details on the cause of death were provided.
Lewis gained fame in the late ’90s, hosting shows like “Total Request Live” and “Hot Zone,” and launched her own talk show in 2001. In 2019, she was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer but chose to forgo the recommended double mastectomy. In a January 2025 op-ed for Essence, Lewis discussed her approach to managing cancer through alternative methods, such as eliminating alcohol and sugar, monthly ultrasounds, and high-dose vitamin C IVs.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, she realized her tumor had grown and subsequently underwent genetically targeted fractionated chemotherapy, which aims to destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. However, a PET scan in October 2023 revealed the cancer had progressed to Stage 4. At this point, she sought treatment at an integrative facility.
Despite her struggles, Lewis encouraged women to prioritize their health. Reflecting on past decisions, she expressed regret over avoiding mammograms due to fears about radiation. In her Essence piece, she urged women to educate themselves and prioritize preventive measures to avoid her fate, stating, “If I had known what I know now… perhaps I wouldn’t have ended up here.” Her final message emphasized the importance of seeking information and making positive lifestyle changes for better health outcomes.
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