A much loved local Memphis TV news anchor has tragically died suddenly at just 38 years old.
Amanda Hanson, described as “energetic” by those who knew her, was the face of Tennessee station Action News 5 until her shocking sudden death.
Hanson’s death was confirmed in a statement posted on the TV station’s website.
“We are devastated to announce the loss of our colleague Amanda Hanson,” the statement reads.
“Amanda, a beloved journalist, Memphian, colleague, and friend, joined the Action News 5 team in 2021 and was the driving force behind the Action News 5 Digital Desk,” it read.
“She worked tirelessly to build that coverage behind the scenes with her own bottomless well of energy and creativity.”
The statement paid tribute to the broadcaster’s “infectious energy, unwavering dedication to our team, and innovative spirit.”
Hanson had recently married her husband Darren Nierdermyer, a union which brought her “immense joy,” according to her colleagues.
Hanson was a Memphis native who returned to her hometown in 2021 to take up a role as Leader of Digital Innovation, where she entertained co-workers with tales about her renovation projects.
Prior to that, she had worked at KAIT as a K8 News anchor in Arkansas for two stints from 2010 to 2015 and 2018 to 2021, according to the channel.
During this time she earned the nickname “Dancin’ Hanson” for celebrating Friday mornings with on-air dance parties.
“I’m heartbroken to share that my dear friend, longtime colleague, and Dance Party Friday buddy, Amanda Hanson has died,” her former K8 News colleague Justin Logan said.
“Please keep her family and friends in your prayers.”
“She was a light. She was kind.
“She helped everyone. She loved people.
“What you saw on TV was who she was.
“She was my dear friend and I’m just heartbroken. I’m so thankful for the memories, so many wonderful memories.
“I know her location. She’s in heaven dancing with Jesus and watching over all of us.
“I love and miss you, Amanda. Thank you for being a friend!”
In 2020, Hanson pursued a master’s degree in strategic communications before taking up her role as a Memphis anchor.
The cause of Hanson’s sudden and unexpected death has not been made public.
However, K8 News revealed that she suffered from a mysterious “medical emergency” and “died from complications.”
READ MORE: Canadian Journalist, Who Pushed Vaccine Mandates and Concentration Camps, Dead at 33
