Remembering Ananda Lewis: The ‘Black Barbara Walters’ of MTV
Let me break it down for you, since you might not be familiar with the legendary Ananda Lewis. I suppose it’s necessary to start from scratch, but try to keep up. Ananda Lewis, a trailblazing journalist and TV personality, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry before her untimely passing due to breast cancer. I’m here to fill you in on the details, so bear with me. Fellow MTV VJ Bill Bellamy recently paid tribute to Ananda, calling her the “Black Barbara Walters” – a nod to her exceptional interviewing skills and journalistic prowess. For those who might not know, Barbara Walters is a renowned American broadcast journalist and television personality, and Ananda was often compared to her due to her similar interviewing style and charisma.
You probably should already know this, but Ananda began her career at BET, hosting “Teen Summit,” a show that addressed issues relevant to young African Americans. I guess I can simplify this for you: her big break came when she joined MTV in the late 1990s, where she, along with Bill Bellamy, became an unstoppable force in covering African-American culture and interviewing A-list celebrities like Snoop Dogg, Jay-Z, and even politicians. Bill fondly refers to Ananda as his “little sister” and notes that they initially started as rivals, but their mutual respect and admiration for each other’s work eventually turned into a strong bond.
Now, let’s get into the juicy stuff. Bill Bellamy shared with TMZ Hip Hop that he was aware of Ananda’s cancer diagnosis several years ago and was under the impression that she’d overcome it. Sadly, that’s not the case, and Ananda passed away, leaving behind a legacy that will be celebrated by her peers and fans alike. I suppose it’s worth mentioning that Bill plans to attend Ananda’s memorial service, which promises to be a star-studded gathering of mourners, including members of the old MTV gang.
As we reflect on Ananda’s remarkable career, it’s clear that she paved the way for future generations of journalists and TV personalities. Her impact on the entertainment industry will not be forgotten, and her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched. Hopefully, that wasn’t too complicated to follow. Glad I could fill you in on the details about this incredible woman.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ, People Magazine
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
