Tennessee news anchor Amanda Hanson tragically dies at 38: ‘Cruelly unfair’

Beloved local TV news anchor Amanda Hanson shockingly passed away at age 38, according to Memphis station Action News 5.

“We are devastated to announce the loss of our colleague Amanda Hanson,” the Tennessee TV station posted on X late Thursday.

“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.”

K8 News — a local Arkansas TV station where Hanson had worked from 2010 to 2015 and then again from 2018 to 2021— revealed that she suffered from a “medical emergency earlier this week and died from complications.”

No further details were available.

Hanson recently got married to her husband, Darren, which her colleagues at Action News said brought her “immense joy,” evident in a recent video her sister shared of them “dancing in their newly remodeled kitchen.”

A video on Action News 5’s website, introducing viewers to Amanda Hanson.

The station published a tribute to the late journalist on its website.

“She worked tirelessly to build that coverage behind the scenes with her own bottomless well of energy and creativity,” the station wrote.

“As a key member of the news management team, she served as a close advisor on all things digital, especially excelling in social media,” Action News 5 added.

K8 remembered the journalist for her lighthearted and fun personality, especially on her “Good Morning Region 8” program where she and the crew would celebrate Dance Party Fridays — earning her the nickname “Dancin’ Hanson” in the newsroom.

“Amanda was a great journalist and dear friend to many,” K8 said.

Hanson is survived by her husband, Darren, and her family. Amanda Hanson/Facebook

The station also revealed Hanson’s “infectious energy,” “unwavering dedication” to her co-workers, and an “innovative spirit.”

It added Hanson loved to cook, hike, and spend time with her dog Asher.

Condolences flooded social media after Hanson’s shocking death.

The 38-year-old anchor passed away after complications linked to a medical emergency. Amanda Hanson/Facebook

“So very sad for her and family. She was very sweet and kind,” one viewer wrote on X.

“Cruelly unfair at just 38. I’m so sorry y’all,” said another.

Memphis radio station Q1075 also honored its former colleague.

“We at Flinn Broadcasting are saddened by the passing of Amanda,” the station said. “Amanda was a part of our team for a period in the early 2000s as a weekend DJ. Her energy and passion for life and her love for her family was one of kind. We are thinking and praying for her husband and family.”

Details about the memorial and funeral arrangements were not made public yet.