How Ananda Lewis Used Media to Advocate for Racial Justice and Equality

Ananda Lewis (March 21, 1973 – June 11, 2025) was a multifaceted American media personality, celebrated for her impactful work as a television host, journalist, and advocate.

Her career spanned over three decades, during which she became a trusted voice for youth, a champion for social justice, and a beacon of resilience in the face of personal health challenges.

Early Life and Education

Born in Los Angeles, California, as Sarasvati Ananda Lewis, she was raised in a supportive environment that fostered her creative talents. She attended Howard University in Washington, D.C., where she graduated cum laude in 1995 with a degree in history.

Her time at Howard was marked by active involvement in mentoring at-risk youth, an experience that would later influence her career choices.

Ananda’s entry into the media world began with her role as the host of BET’s Teen Summit, a platform that addressed pressing issues affecting teenagers. Her insightful interviews and empathetic approach earned her the 1997 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Youth Series.

This recognition propelled her into the spotlight, leading to a position as a video jockey (VJ) at MTV.

At MTV, Ananda hosted and co-hosted several programs, including MTV Live, Hot Zone, and Total Request Live. She was known for her candid discussions on topics such as race, identity, and social issues, often bringing a fresh perspective to the network’s programming.

Notably, she hosted the MTV special True Life: I Am Driving While Black, which won her a second NAACP Image Award in 2001.

Transition to Talk Show Host

In 2001, Ananda transitioned from music television to daytime talk shows with the launch of The Ananda Lewis Show. The program distinguished itself by tackling serious subjects like domestic violence and breast cancer, offering a thoughtful alternative to the more sensationalised talk shows of the time.

Although the show ran for two seasons, it solidified Ananda’s reputation as a compassionate and insightful host.

After a hiatus from television, Ananda returned in 2019 to host the revival of While You Were Out on TLC. Beyond her television career, she became a correspondent for The Insider, contributing to various segments that highlighted human interest stories.

Ananda was also deeply committed to social activism. She served as a spokesperson for Reading Is Fundamental, a nonprofit literacy organization, and was an advocate for the Humane Society. Her work often intersected with her media roles, as she used her platform to raise awareness about issues such as literacy and animal rights.

Health Journey and Final Years

In October 2020, Ananda publicly shared her diagnosis of stage 3 breast cancer, urging women to prioritize regular mammograms. Despite her diagnosis, she continued her advocacy work and remained active in the public eye.

In October 2024, she announced that her cancer had progressed to stage 4. Throughout her battle, Ananda emphasized the importance of early detection and shared her experiences to educate others.

Ananda passed away on June 11, 2025, at the age of 52, surrounded by family at her home in Los Angeles. Her death marked the end of a remarkable journey characterized by courage, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice.

Personal Life

Ananda was a devoted mother to her son, Langston, whom she had with Harry Smith, the brother of actor Will Smith. She often spoke about the profound impact motherhood had on her life and how it influenced her work and advocacy.