After Lewis passed away following a prolonged struggle with breast cancer, Elam and CNN colleague Sara Sidner, who is also battling breast cancer, delivered a heartfelt on-air tribute to their departed friend.

Yesterday, news broke that former MTV VJ and activist Ananda Lewis died at 52 years old after a long battle with breast cancer. As Lewis’ family, friends, and fans grieve the media trailblazer, her best friend Stephanie Elam shared the powerful message her bestie left her with.

Ananda Lewis, a former MTV VJ who connected a generation of music fans to their favorite celebrities on the music network, has died at age 52 from breast cancer. CNN’s Sara Sidner and Stephanie Elam shared an emotional tribute about their friend on CNN.

Popular TV personality Ananda Lewis passed on, aged 52, on June 11, 2025, after battling with breast cancer for nearly five years.