Ananda Lewis, a former MTV VJ who connected a generation of music fans to their favorite celebrities in the network’s heyday, has died. She was 52.

Ananda Lewis, the former MTV and BET host who became a beloved television personality in the 1990s with her warmth and authenticity, has died. She was 52. Her sister, Lakshmi Emory, confirmed Lewis' death in a Facebook post Wednesday.

CNN anchor Sara Sidner and correspondent Stephanie Elam broke down on air while sharing the final message from MTV VJ Ananda Lewis, who died Wednesday following a prolonged battle with breast cancer.