Ananda Lewis Made Room For Us To Be Seen & Built A Legacy We Stand On

Lewis, known for her role as a host on Total Request Live, The Ananda Lewis Show and BET 's Teen Summit, had a voice that was as special as it was resonant.
There were two definitive points in my life when I remember Lewis having a huge impact on how I navigate this world. The first was as a little Black girl, watching her break down pop culture moments, discuss serious societal issues and interview some of my favorite celebrities. It was mesmerizing. Seeing her report, inform and entertain opened doors for so many coming up behind her. Of course, we had icons like Oprah Winfrey and the late Gwen Ifill making strides onscreen at the same time, but Lewis felt more accessible and relatable to millennials.
She commanded the camera naturally, infusing her own lived experiences into the questions she asked. Lewis connected with both her interviewees and her audience. In a male-dominated industry in the '90s and early 2000s, she challenged social norms and empowered women.
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And though I didn't yet know I'd be walking in her footsteps—or even that what she was doing was journalism at that time—I looked up to her early on.
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It was clear to me why she was a fixture on my screen: She made journalism cool. And though I didn't yet know I'd be walking in her footsteps—or even that what she was doing was journalism at that time—I looked up to her early on. Her legacy was part of the reason I chose to attend Howard University (HU), where she, too, was an alum.
In 1999, Bob Kusbit, MTV senior vice president for production at the time, told The New York Times, "In the past our talent was sometimes just pretty people who could read cue cards. But when we brought Ananda to MTV, we decided we were going to do a lot more live television."
The second moment I vividly remember Lewis impacting me came in October 2020, when she shared her breast cancer diagnosis through an Instagram video. In the midst of a pandemic, when the value of public health became more urgent and evident than it ever felt like before, this woman I had grown up admiring revealed she had been diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer.
'I am sharing this with you because it's the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I have been fighting to get cancer out of my body for two years,' she said in her post. 'For a really long time, I have refused mammograms and that was a mistake.'
From that point on, she made it her mission to educate and inform women about the importance of early detection through self-exams and mammograms. She shared Instagram posts and spoke openly with the press to raise awareness about regular screenings for early detection. 'I need you to get your mammograms,' she emotionally declared.
Lewis also shared the holistic lifestyle changes she implemented after her diagnosis.
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We're worse off without her physical presence, but better off because of how she chose to live her life. Her light and her legacy lives on.
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By the time her cancer advanced to stage 4, she was no longer able to get the double mastectomy she needed. Under COVID-19 guidelines, it was deemed a 'non-emergency.' She told The Epoch Times that the disease had spread to her spine, hips and liver.
Even then, she didn't let her condition dim her light. She used her platform to spread life-saving information for other women without letting cancer define her. Lewis died Wednesday at age 52, her sister Lakshmi Emory confirmed in a Facebook post.
Without a doubt, Lewis' vulnerability and commitment to the truth made her such an impactful figure. If you look around at the current media landscape of Black women—names like Ivie Ani, Sylvia Obell, Taylor Crumpton, Danielle Young, Sidney Madden, myself and so many others— we all stand on her shoulders in some respect. The double whammy of losing Lewis and former MuchMusic VJ Juliette Powell in the same week is heavy.
In a 2024 interview with CNN, Lewis spoke candidly about how her diagnosis altered her life.
'The cancer diagnosis caused me to change things in my life I never would have changed otherwise, that I needed to change but would not change,' she said. 'And those changes have allowed me access to more of my joy, more of the time.'
Lewis fought gracefully and with determination. We're worse off without her physical presence, but better off because of how she chose to live her life. Her light and her legacy lives on.

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4 hours ago

• Buzz Feed

27 Torrid Items To Reinvent Your Style This Summer

A denim trucker jacket because every season deserves a tried and true staple that goes with literally everything. But, don't get it twisted. Every denim jacket isn't just a replica of another. This one features a trucker jacket silhouette and a distressed hem to set it apart from the others. Promising review: "I received this jacket in the mail yesterday and I like it. I feel like to could be styled with dresses, jeans and trousers depending on the look you are trying to achieve. IMO, the fit is true to size. Also, in my opinion, there is not a lot of stretch. I ordered a 2 and that's what i normally order in shirts, jackets and blazers. The sleeves hit right at the wrist. My favorite part of the jacket is the raw hem at the bottom. I will probably also purchase the darker denim. I would recommend." —Lovin All Things DenimPrice: $41.94 (originally $69.90; available in sizes M–6X and two colors) A sleeveless mini dress featuring pockets that reviewers can't stop raving about. They love the knit fabric and the smoothing effect the dress gives. They say it's great for every occasion because it can be dressed up or down. Bonus: It comes in many colors. Promising reviews: "Love the new colors! I can't help but buy these dresses! These dresses always fit and look good. Can't go wrong." —CJS8082"Comfortable Fit! Love how the flare lays around my belly area. I bought several more colors in this because I'm in love with these! Used this Black one with my Western Torrid Boots for a Mexican Festival 🥳 and got so many compliments 🥰🙌🏻❤️ All I had to do was accessorize it. The stretch and length were a blessing all night long 😍. Love Love Love This Style! Thank you, My Fabulous Torrid!!!!! ❤️🙌🏻" —LaPalomaDelValle95601Price: $20+ (originally $55.90; available in sizes M–6X and six colors) A corset tank with a knit fabric that holds you close for a somewhat bodycon effect. Did I mention the tie straps? If you've got an occasion on the books and are rummaging for something to wear, this corset tank combo will always stop the show. And that matching skirt you're eyeing, you can get it right here. Promising review: "Bought this in a two and I'm so happy I did! It's snug on the fit as you'd expect for a corset tank. It's stupid cute! I paired it with a skirt bought from Torrid years ago, and it looks amazing with it. This shirt looks amazing with everything I've tried it with so far, may end up buying it in more colors, I love it that much, the color I did buy was black." —I_love_milk_dudsPrice: $21.54 (originally $35.90; available in sizes M–6X and three colors) A triangle swim top, that's wire-free for your comfort, with matching high-waisted cheeky bottom, ready to ensure you stay photo-ready at the next pool party, even if you never take a dip. Promising reviews: "I bought this bikini top a month ago to help build my confidence in my physical. The color and the shape of the product work really well, and I'm so happy that I found the design pattern I absolutely love. I would totally recommend this product." —Anonymous"Big girl, big fun! Great fit for the summer sun. The waist and cup sizes are just the right fit. Gives support. Looks good wet or dry." —AnonymousPrice: $35.94 for the top (originally $59.90; available in sizes L–6X and three styles) and 20+ for the bottoms (originally $44.90; available in sizes M–6X and nine styles) A leopard sarong ideal for weekend getaways when multipurpose clothing reigns supreme. You can wear it as a skirt or a dress for a barely-there garment on the hottest of days. Promising review: "So, I purchased this in leopard print. And thought it was cute. I have never found a sarong that fits well. I got this and omg! It fits so well in both styles, the dress style and the sarong style. this will be my go-to this summer, I am so glad I bought it!" —theedarkcrystalPrice: $14.95 (originally $29.90; also available in two other colors) A button front overall set on upgrading your usual farmhouse chic attire. These overalls aren't rough like other denim; they're softer for added comfort. And, the haltered top adds a little sauciness that you don't get from traditional overalls. Promising reviews: "These are so dang cute and comfortable! I've never had a pair of overalls that weren't too short in the rise. These are terrific!" —QueenKarin"Total score. I love a good pair of bibs. The ties are awesome and the back is not like farmer bibs. I did get an 18 for more room. I get so many compliments every time I wear them. I am thinking about another pair for some patches." —Kris10starrPrice: $59.94 (originally $99.90; available in sizes 16–22) A drop cherry earring so ~sweet~ for your go-to summer 'fit... whether that's a dress and sandals, or a basic tank, high-rise shorts, and your fave slides. Price: $11.94 (originally $19.90) A V-neck tee in an assortment of 21 colors to be used at your discretion, all summer long. Perhaps you just want to lounge around in an ultra-soft tee. Or, maybe you want to twist it up into a crop top for more stylish flair. And if you want to wear one every day of the week, that's your business. Promising reviews: "Absolutely love the cowhide color! I got so many compliments. And the fit and feel of the shirt is awesome!" —angelmir"Finally, a t-shirt that fits well and looks great on. I actually went back to order another color!!!" —Smiling76Price: $10+ (originally $27.90; available in sizes M–6X and 21 colors) A sheer button-up shirt for those who need a few pieces to add to their workplace-appropriate collection. It can also serve as a thin jacket when the summer nights get cool and you want a little something on your arms. Price: $33.54 (originally $54.90; available in sizes M–6X) A ghosty summer earring, or shall we say *summerweenie* earring, for the spooky at heart who still love to play in the sun. Once you pop out these puppies, you'll know it's only a matter of months until you get to Halloween. Price: $11.94 (originally $19.90) A pair of cork-sole heels because the natural wood look makes it the perfect shoe to pair with your maxi dress, denim shorts, and skinny jeans. Yes! We've found our summer heel. Price: $39.54 (originally $65.90; available in sizes 6.5–13) A mesh maxi skirt with flowers galore that'll look great with your favorite combat boots (because yes, you're edgy year round). Price: $35.94 (originally $59.90; available in sizes M–6X) A smocked crop top and skirt set so you don't have to worry about matching pieces together. The halter top and skirt, complete with leg slit, would like to be your plus one for the beach bonfire this weeend. Promising review: "Get this! I stepped out my comfort zone and with full intention to return it once it came in from it on and LOVED it! Top and bottom is stretchy. Theres 1 slit. Could've added another one ot the one could've been higher. Going to add some wedges, accessories and maybe a Jean jacket if the weather isnt warm enough. I got a 1 bc I'm top heavy. It was perfect!" —TorriddivaJPrice: $20 (originally $99.90; available in sizes 2X–6X) A platform sandal in case you've been on the hunt for a shoe that can withstand hours on your feet with no problem. Promising review: "I bought these in green a month ago and loved them so much I ordered the other colors. They fit well, are not too bulky and are very comfortable. I bought my usual Torrid size and I had no problems." —AngelB05Price: $33.54 (originally $55.90; available in sizes 6–13 and three colors) A pair of high-rise pull-on shorts so your denim jorts can take the day off on warm days when you'd prefer to wear a lighter material. Price: $10 (originally $29.90; available in sizes M–6X and two colors) And! a matching collared top to turn those garments into a travel-friendly ensemble. Plus, if you think about it, you can never have enough loungewear. Promising review: "So soft and feels amazing. I bought this in blue and may *need* to get every color. I love how this feels and how I look in it. It's casual, yet could be worn to work. GREAT TOP!" —AH251Price: $59.90 (available in sizes M–6X and three colors) A halter midi dress in a ~hot~ pink color that's practically screaming at you to usher in the island vibes. Sure, we may not be able to go to the island, but we can always bring the island to us. The first step? Throwing on this dress! Promising review: "This dress is summer-ready fun. Love the neckline, and the fit across the bust is great because the smocking is so perfect. It's a sweet color!" —AzcynPrice: $35.99+ (originally $75.90; available in sizes M–6X and two colors) A pair of biker shorts because truthfully, you can never have enough, especially when they come in so many colors. Come summer festivities, you'll appreciate the stretchy material that'll give you the freedom to move when you attend your local free concert in the park. Promising review: "These bike shorts are the perfect length to wear with a T-shirt around the house! They are super soft and super stretchy, perfect for lounging in. And they have pockets!! I bought my usual size 2 and they are a perfect fit, but could possibly even go a size smaller since they have a great stretch." —MandyLue77Price: $15.54 (originally $25.90; available in sizes M–6X and nine colors) A cotton maxidress for a refreshing and breezy dress to wear when you have to ride your bike from the family country house down the road to the bus station so you can stop your childhood crush from leaving town because you haven't had the chance to tell them, "I've always loved you, too." Promising review: "Love love love this dress! It is flowy and not too cool or too warm for summer wear, even in air conditioning or high heat. Looks adorable and I could see wearing it out to honestly, I got it to be comfortable around home or on live calls for work and feel beautiful." —Angel KatPrice: $99.90 (available in sizes M–6X) A tie-front blouse pretty much the definition of work and play. Throw a cami or shell underneath for a 9-to-5 appropriate top, but once you clock out, ditch the cami and tube top for a gorgeous night-out look. Promising review: "I bought this with the matching wide-leg pants and it looks amazing together? I wear it with a tube top under it for more professional settings and without the tube top and with a purple bra for a [gorgeous] look! Go for it!" —CShampPrice: $27.54 (originally $45.90; available in sizes L–6X and two colors) A smoky pair of cat-eye sunglasses because your peepers are craving a retro pair of shades to dim some of the sun's shine this season. Price: $10.14 (originally $16.90; available in four colors) A crochet maxi cover-up made of a lightweight fabric that will gracefully drape over your body. It would be perfect to use as a cover-up for beach days, but it can also be worn over your bodycon dress or tank and jean combo for some added pizzazz. Promising review: "So freaking gorgeous! Even better in person. I wish it were a dress so I could wear it all the time, lol." —MandaMandaPrice: $20+ (originally $69.90; available sizes M–4X and two colors) A pair of high-rise relaxed denim trousers if you're ready to morph into a '90s R&B *it girl* at a time when baggy jeans and crop tops ruled the world. "Alexa, play 'I Wanna Be Down' by Brandy." Price: $79.90 (available in sizes 10–30 and three lengths) A pair of high-rise shorts in a gritty black because you're not going to turn down your all-black aesthetic simply because the sun decided to turn the heat up. Some reviewers suggest sizing up for a looser fit. Promising review: "These are comfy and fit perfectly. Love the coloring and the look. These will be my go-to shorts for all summer long." —Mandi2025Price: $33.54 (originally $55.90; available in sizes 10–16 and two colors) A casual skater dress when you're unsure what the day will hold and want to throw on something that won't be too dressy if the vibes are casual, but won't make you stand out if the vibes are more polished. We call this an anything dress. Promising review: "Can't wait for warm weather!!! These dresses are so cute and comfortable. It will be cute with little slip-on sneakers for a super casual dressed up a bit with sandals and some jewelry." —MELD68Price: $20+ (originally $55.90; available in sizes M–5X and five colors) A vibrant skort in a 'poppin yellow hue that'll have passerbys yelling, "MUSTAAAAAARD." And if you're wondering if this wonderful piece of athletic wear has a matching top: voila! Promising review: "I love this skort! It is comfortable, has nice flow (doesn't stick to you) and the shorts underneath mean I don't have to worry about flashing anyone." —JemjemjemPrice: $35.94 (originally $59.90; available sizes M–6X and two colors) A pair of white crochet sneakers reviewers love because they're super cozy but also super cute. When you can find a shoe that can do both, never let it go. Promising review: "This white lace is so cute! They match everything and are easy to pull on or off when on the go! Thank you, My Torrid! ❤️ I never have to sacrifice cuteness for comfort. 👍🏻" —LaPalomaDelValle2025Price: $23.94 (originally $39.90; available in sizes 6–13 and two widths)

Yahoo

5 hours ago

• Yahoo

Bianca Censori's Lookalike Sister Angelina Flaunts Body in Itty-Bitty String Bikini

Bianca Censori's Lookalike Sister Angelina Flaunts Body in Itty-Bitty String Bikini originally appeared on Parade. 's lookalike sister, , flaunted her body while rocking an itty-bitty string bikini in new photos. On Wednesday, June 18, the Australian model, 21, took to Instagram with a carousel of pictures—but a few snaps in particular caught followers' attention. 🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 "The simple life," Angelina captioned her update, tagging the location as Mallorca, Spain. In the featured image, she included a gorgeous shot of the sunrise over water. The very next photo, however, showed Angelina wearing a silver two-piece swimsuit while posing on the steps of a swimming pool. Another snap showed her wearing black bikini bottoms and seemingly no top, although she covered her chest with a towel. Later in the update, Angelina added a different shot of her in the original, metallic bikini. Check out all of the head-turning photos here! In the comments, one Instagram user declared the pics were "unreal," as another called Angelina "a literal princess." Someone else wrote, "Gorgeous," as a fourth said she was a "baddie." Yet another fan commented, "Vibes that you bring are immaculate." Recently, Angelina rocked a sheer look that left little to the imagination. She also dropped jaws in a see-through dress. Bianca, 30, meanwhile, recently dropped jaws in a barely-there tan bodysuit. Next: Bianca Censori's Lookalike Sister Angelina Flaunts Body in Itty-Bitty String Bikini first appeared on Parade on Jun 18, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 18, 2025, where it first appeared.

Miami Herald

9 hours ago

• Miami Herald

Where to Eat, Drink and Chill in Kauai's Tastiest Beach Town

Before traveling to Hawaii for the first time, I spent hours browsing through Instagram and TikTok foodie posts. Gathering ideas for all the delicious meals I'd eat, I had high expectations for the food in Poipu Beach, located on the south shore of Kauai. As it turns out, this island's food scene impressed me even more than expected. From nicer, more sophisticated spots like Red Salt Restaurant to quick bar bites at Kalapaki Joe's, check out these best Kauai food and drink spots on your next visit. These must-visit restaurants in Kauai won't let you down. I love Indian food and will make a point to grab it during any trip. This tucked-away restaurant, "That Indian Place", has excellent food and will adjust to your spice preferences. I ordered the butter chicken (mild) and the chicken sagwala (mild), along with some garlic naan bread. The local atmosphere and outdoor dining patio really made this place stand out as one of my favorite spots to eat throughout the whole trip. Top menu items Mango LassiButter ChickenChicken Tikka MasalaChicken SagwalaPaneer Tikka Stop by Brennecke's Beach Broiler as you stroll along Poipu Beach for a lively, vibrant atmosphere. Locals and visitors alike know this top spot as one of the best places for food and drink on Kauai. While crowded, you can grab some phenomenal bites here as well as tropical-style frozen cocktails. I loved the desserts here too. If you plan on doing some appetizer or bar hopping along the main strip, definitely make this restaurant/bar a must-visit spot. Top menu items Seafood Pupu PlatterMango MadnessLava Lava FlowPineapple Rum Upside Down Cake If you want to try a Loco Moco, stop by Red Salt Restaurant, attached to the beautiful Ko'a Kea Resort. This spot served the best Loco Moco I had while in Hawaii. A Loco Moco is a Hawaiian favorite comfort food, made with white rice, gravy, a hamburger patty, and topped with a fried egg. It sounds interesting, but trust me once you try it, you'll want to order it time and time again. The ocean views from this restaurant also set the scene for a nice meal. Top menu items Lemon Pineapple PancakesLoco Moco Acai Bowl Unlike other islands with numerous national chains, Kauai offers a more locally inspired dining scene. This laid-back, down-to-earth island provides numerous options for fresh, local seafood, including mahimahi, ahi tuna, and ono. The island also has many traditional Hawaiian plates to try. I highly recommend trying at least one classic Hawaiian dish, such as the Loco Moco, during your visit. You'll also find spam musubi almost everywhere, another classic food in Kauai. Where to Stay in Kauai, Hawaii's Gorgeous Garden IsleBest Time to Visit Hawaii: A Month-by-Month GuideUnwind & Recharge: Choosing the Ideal Hawaiian Island for Your Family Getaway10 Dreamy Honeymoon Spots in the USA20 Fun Things to Do in Hawaii with Kids The post Where to Eat, Drink and Chill in Kauai's Tastiest Beach Town appeared first on She Buys Travel. Copyright © 2025 SheBuysTravel · All Rights Reserved