Atlanta radio host Wanda Smith was a beloved figure in the city’s entertainment scene, remembered for her sharp wit, warmth, and dedication to her community. The popular radio personality and a key voice in Atlanta’s entertainment scene, passed away Oct. 12, just one day after celebrating her 58th birthday.
While her 2018 on-air exchange with veteran comedian Katt Williams gained viral attention, Smith was much more than that moment. The disc jockey and comedian’s notorious roast session during an on-air interview went. She departed from the Atlanta radio station after the situation escalated. The vitriol spoken over her name since her death has served as another stark reminder that grace is elusive for Black women.
The news of her death was confirmed by Rick Caffey, Senior Vice President and Market Manager of Atlanta’s V-103 radio station, where Smith joined in 1997, co-hosting the station’s top-rated morning show.
“Our hearts are weighing heavier today as we grieve the loss of our beloved Wanda Smith, someone who always made us smile and who was a big part of V-103 for years,” Caffey said in an Instagram post. “We extend our deepest prayers and condolences to her family.”
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Smith, known for her vibrant personality and comedic flair, first joined V-103, formerly WVEE-FM, as co-host of the Frank and Wanda in the Morning show. She remained a central figure on the show for more than two decades, except for a brief hiatus in 2013. Smith returned to V-103 in 2014, partnering with Ryan Cameron until her departure in 2019. For over two decades, she was a vital voice on V-103’s Frank and Wanda in the Morning, helping to shape Atlanta’s radio landscape. Her impact extended beyond the airwaves, with her stand-up comedy career and involvement in local events.
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In addition to her work in radio, Smith made a name for herself as a comedian. She was a credited writer on hit TV series such as Def Comedy Jam and BET’s ComicView. For years, Smith held a weekly set at the Atlanta Comedy Theater in Norcross and appeared in several films, including Tyler Perry’s Madea Goes to Jail and Madea’s Witness Protection.
As the city mourns the disc jockey’s death, tributes have poured in from local leaders and fans. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens issued a heartfelt statement, reflecting on Smith’s influence on the city’s culture and media.
“Atlanta has lost a staple with the passing of Wanda Smith—not only in our city’s media but our culture. We not only trusted her—we relied on her for her acumen, a common-sense way of speaking to her listeners, and perhaps most importantly, telling us it was okay to laugh in good times and bad. She was a voice for so many Atlantans, and my thoughts and prayers are with her family, loved ones, and folks like me who just loved her love for our city.”
Comedian and daytime television host Loni Love shared her condolences on the X app.
“I am sad to hear about the passing of comedian and radio host Wanda Smith. She was a staple in the Atlanta area and we came up in comedy together. She was the ultimate entertainer. Rest now, Sis. Condolences to The Smith Family,” Love captioned the post.
I am sad to hear about the passing of comedian and radio host Wanda Smith. She was a staple in the Atlanta area and we came up in comedy together. She was the ultimate entertainer. Rest now, Sis. Condolences to The Smith Family. pic.twitter.com/Uo3esRalom
— Loni Love (@LoniLove) October 13, 2024
Her former radio host and co-worker Frank Ski took to Instagram and spoke about needing time to “process” his fallen comrade’s death.
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Ski also shared a touching video of Smith’s work and how she touched those who knew her.
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Throughout her career, Smith was cherished not only for her humor but for her ability to connect deeply with her audience. Her distinct voice, often described as both comforting and real, made her a trusted figure in Atlanta’s entertainment world.
She is survived by her husband, LaMorris Sellers, and their three children. A cause of death has not yet been released.
Wanda Smith’s contributions to radio and comedy have left an indelible mark on Atlanta’s cultural landscape. As tributes continue to flow, her legacy as a talented, beloved figure in the city’s entertainment scene will live on.
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