Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis Dies Breast Cancer Age 52

Ananda Lewis, a beloved MTV VJ and television host known for her work in the late 1990s and early 2000s, died at age 52 after a prolonged battle with stage 4 breast cancer. She was diagnosed in 2020 but initially avoided regular mammograms and declined a double mastectomy, opting instead for alternative treatments, which she later regretted. Despite her illness, Lewis remained vocal about cancer prevention and early detection, urging women to pay attention to their bodies and get regular screenings. Her sister Lakshmi confirmed her passing and shared a heartfelt message on social media. Lewis reflected on her journey and mortality in a 2025 Essence essay, emphasizing living authentically and the importance of quality of life. Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, friends, and former colleagues, highlighting her impact on a generation of music fans and television audiences.