Wanda Smith’s career as a comedian and radio personality spanned over two decades, making her a beloved figure in Atlanta’s entertainment scene. She started her journey in radio in 1998 when she joined V-103 (WVEE-FM), co-hosting the popular Frank and Wanda in the Morning show alongside Frank Ski. Her quick wit, infectious laughter, and relatable personality helped make the show one of the highest-rated morning programs in Atlanta, consistently ranking at or near the top for most of her tenure. She remained a fixture on the show until 2012, when both she and Ski briefly left the station to pursue other interests.
After a brief hiatus, Wanda returned to V-103 in 2014, this time co-hosting with Ryan Cameron. Her ability to seamlessly blend humor and heartfelt moments kept her a favorite among Atlanta listeners. She continued in this role until 2018, when she was joined once again by Frank Ski. However, her time at V-103 came to an end in early 2019 after a series of events, including a much-publicized altercation with comedian Katt Williams in 2018.
In addition to her radio career, Wanda was an accomplished stand-up comedian and writer. She contributed to the iconic Def Comedy Jam and performed on stages across the country, including at notable Atlanta venues like the Uptown Comedy Corner and the Atlanta Comedy Theater. She also made appearances in popular films, including Madea Goes to Jail and Madea’s Witness Protection, further showcasing her versatility as an entertainer.
Wanda’s career was not just limited to her public performances. She was a driving force behind the scenes as well, often helping to lift up her community. Her work in empowering young women through her organization “Girls Stand Together” demonstrated her commitment to making a positive impact beyond the entertainment world.
Throughout her career, Wanda Smith was recognized for her contributions to Atlanta’s media and comedy landscape. She was honored as one of Atlanta’s 25 Most Influential Women, a testament to the widespread impact she had not only as an entertainer but also as a community leader.
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Wanda Smith Heath Battles
Throughout her life, Wanda Smith faced several significant health challenges. In 2015, she was hospitalized with a colon infection, which was later diagnosed as diverticulitis, a painful condition she described as feeling similar to labor pains. She was treated with antibiotics and made adjustments to her diet to manage the condition.
In 2017, she underwent surgery to remove an abscess from one of her ovaries after experiencing sudden pain while traveling to Mississippi. She took time off to recover but returned to her roles on radio and in comedy shortly after. Despite these battles, Wanda continued to perform and bring joy to her audience, maintaining her vibrant personality even through her health struggles.
Wanda Smith’s Death
Wanda Smith passed away on October 12, 2024, at the age of 58, just a day after celebrating her birthday. Although her death came as a shock to many, the cause has not yet been publicly disclosed. Her passing was confirmed by V-103, the radio station where she had worked for over two decades.
Wanda Smith Husband and Children
Wanda Smith was married to LaMorris Sellers. The couple shared a long-lasting relationship and had two sons, Giovanni and Tavares. In addition to her two sons, Wanda was also a grandmother. Her son Tavares welcomed a daughter named Taylor, making Wanda a proud grandmother in 2017.
Wanda Smith Net Worth
Wanda Smith had an estimated net worth of $1 million at the time of her passing.
FAQs
Who was Wanda Smith?
Wanda Smith was a beloved comedian, radio host, and actress from Atlanta, best known for co-hosting Frank and Wanda in the Morning on V-103 for over two decades.
What was Wanda Smith known for?
Smith was renowned for her quick wit and comedic talent on Atlanta’s airwaves. She also appeared in movies such as Madea Goes to Jail and was a writer for Def Comedy Jam.
What was Wanda Smith’s role on V-103?
She co-hosted the morning radio show alongside Frank Ski from 1998 to 2012, and later with Ryan Cameron from 2014 to 2018. She returned to the show with Ski in 2018 before leaving in 2019.
Why did Wanda Smith leave V-103?
Smith left V-103 in early 2019, with speculation that the Katt Williams incident may have contributed to her departure. However, no official reason was given by the station.
Did Wanda Smith act in films?
Yes, Smith appeared in several Tyler Perry films, including Madea’s Witness Protection and The Drone That Saved Christmas.
Did Wanda Smith start any community projects?
Yes, she founded Girls Stand Together, Inc., an organization aimed at empowering young women to become successful and confident.
What health issues did Wanda Smith face?
Smith had long-standing health issues, including surgery in 2017 for an ovarian abscess and a colon infection in 2015, but recovered from both incidents.
What caused Wanda Smith’s death?
Although the exact cause of her death in October 2024 has not been publicly disclosed, it has been suggested that long-standing health issues may have contributed.