Tributes have continued to pour in for Ananda Lewis, the previous MTV VJ and host of BET’s “Teen Summit,” sooner or later after her dying on the age of 52.
Donnie Simpson, the legendary BET host and radio DJ, shared his heartbreak.
“I simply discovered that Ananda Lewis has died and I’m completely brokenhearted,” Simpson stated. “She had super success at MTV and along with her personal discuss present, however she labored with us at BET earlier than all that. She was solely 52 and such a beautiful girl, who cherished her younger son a lot.”
Actress Holly Robinson Peete paid her respects on X, writing, “Relaxation nicely, stunning Ananda.”
Recognized for her highly effective presence on tv, Lewis introduced mind, compassion, and charisma to each platform she graced.
A local of San Diego, California, she started making an influence as early as 13 when she volunteered with Head Begin whereas attending the San Diego Faculty of Artistic and Performing Arts. She studied theater, vocal music, pictures, and dance from the fourth grade by means of highschool.
After graduating, Lewis attended Howard College in Washington, D.C., the place she earned a level in historical past, graduating cum laude in 1995. She spent her school years deeply engaged in youth activism, together with volunteering with Youth at Threat and dealing with the Youth Management and Growth Institute to coach younger folks in management, battle decision, and parenting.
Her dedication to empowering youth in the end led her to tv. With the encouragement of youngsters she mentored, Lewis auditioned for BET’s “Teen Summit” and have become its host.
Her on-screen chemistry with co-host DaJour and her earnest engagement with points affecting younger folks helped the present earn an NAACP Picture Award in 1997 and a nomination for a Cable ACE Award in 1996.
In 1997, Lewis made the leap to MTV. Whereas the transfer meant leaving a present that was deeply private, she acknowledged the chance to succeed in broader audiences.
“I noticed MTV not solely as entry to the lots, but additionally as a chance to be extra of the girl I’m,” Lewis stated.
She went on to host “The Ananda Lewis Present,” a daytime discuss present that debuted in 2001 and additional solidified her place as a voice of perception and authenticity in media. All through her profession, she remained centered on empowerment and advocacy, usually working to uplift others even when the highlight was not on her.
Lewis is survived by her son, who was a continuing supply of affection and delight.
DJ Syndicated Sam stated, “Ananda Lewis, you might be without end an icon. Sending like to her household & pals on this season of bereavement.”
