Angela Stribling, a renowned former BET host and veteran Washington radio personality, has passed away at the age of 58. Her husband, Ken Washington, announced that she died peacefully at her home on Saturday, September 26, 2026, after a two-year battle with brain cancer. Stribling was surrounded by her loved ones, including her husband and sister Darlene, at the time of her passing.
Stribling had a distinguished career in broadcasting, starting at BET where she hosted the entertainment news show Screen Scene for four years. She also played a key role in launching BET Jazz, where she co-hosted Jazz Central with music legends Ramsey Lewis and Lou Rawls. Her contributions to the network were significant, and she left a lasting impact on the industry.
In addition to her work at BET, Stribling was a trailblazer in radio, becoming the first woman to host WHUR's original late-night Quiet Storm programme in Washington, DC. The Quiet Storm format, which began at Howard University in 1976, was a staple of the city's music scene, and Stribling's presence helped shape its sound. Her most recent show, Pillow Talk with Angela, aired on WHUR and SiriusXM.
Stribling's talents extended beyond broadcasting, as she was a trained jazz singer and appeared as a TV anchor in the 1992 Eddie Murphy comedy The Distinguished Gentleman. Her versatility and range earned her a reputation as a talented and multifaceted performer. Tributes have poured in from colleagues and friends, who remember her kindness, love, and inspiration.
Washington shared the news of Stribling's passing on her Instagram page and in a statement to WHUR on Sunday, September 27, 2026. He described her as someone who left behind a legacy of love, kindness, and inspiration. Plans for a celebration of life in Washington, DC, are underway, although the date and venue have yet to be announced.
Former BET journalist Ed Gordon was among the first to mourn Stribling's passing, recalling their friendship and her excitement when she landed a role in The Distinguished Gentleman. WHUR general manager Sean Plater described her as a remarkable talent whose kindness made her truly special. Singer Kia Bennett, who worked with Stribling at BET, WHUR, and XM Satellite Radio, said Stribling inspired her career in radio, TV, and voiceover.
The news of Stribling's passing comes on the heels of another recent celebrity death, as veteran British-Ghanaian rapper Sway DaSafo passed away just days after turning 44. The outpouring of tributes and condolences for Stribling is a testament to her impact on the entertainment industry and her enduring legacy.
Key points
- Angela Stribling died at 58 after a two-year battle with brain cancer.
- Stribling was a trailblazer in radio, hosting WHUR's original late-night Quiet Storm programme.
- Tributes have poured in from colleagues and friends, remembering her kindness, love, and inspiration.
