Wanda Smith Net Worth Was $1.5 – $2 million (estimated). The beloved Atlanta radio personality and comedian left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry before her passing in October 2024. Known for her infectious laugh and quick wit on the Frank and Wanda Morning Show, she became one of the most recognizable voices in urban radio.
This comprehensive biography explores Wanda Smith’s net worth, her journey from Miami, Florida, to becoming an Atlanta entertainment icon, and the lasting legacy she created through radio broadcasting, stand-up comedy, and community philanthropy.
Quick Facts About Wanda Smith
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Wanda Smith |
| Date of Birth | October 11, 1966 |
| Birthplace | Miami, Florida, USA |
| Date of Death | October 12, 2024 |
| Age at Death | 58 years old |
| Profession | Radio Host, Comedian, Actress, Writer |
| Famous For | Frank and Wanda Morning Show on V-103 Atlanta |
| Husband | LaMorris Sellers |
| Children | Three (Tavares, Giovanni, Isaiah) |
| Net Worth (2024) | $1.5 – $2 million (estimated) |
| Years Active | 1990s – 2024 |
| Notable Shows | V-103 Atlanta radio, BET Comicview, Def Comedy Jam |
| Film Appearances | Multiple Tyler Perry Madea films |
Who Was Wanda Smith?
Wanda Smith was more than just an Atlanta radio personality—she was a trailblazer who broke barriers for women in radio broadcasting and stand-up comedy. Born on October 11, 1966, in Miami, Florida, Wanda spent over two decades entertaining Atlanta audiences as a morning show host on V-103 (WVEE-FM), one of the South’s most influential urban radio stations.
Her career in the entertainment industry spanned multiple platforms. As a radio host comedian, she co-hosted the legendary Frank and Wanda Morning Show alongside Frank Ski, creating a dynamic partnership that dominated Atlanta’s morning airwaves for years. Their chemistry and humor made them household names throughout Georgia and beyond, consistently ranking among the top-rated programs in the market.
Beyond radio broadcasting, Wanda Smith made significant contributions to comedy writing and performance. She was a talented film actress who appeared in several Tyler Perry Madea films, bringing her comedic talents to the big screen. As a Def Comedy Jam writer, she helped shape some of the most memorable moments in urban comedy television. Her work demonstrated versatility across multiple entertainment mediums, from stand-up comedy stages to television studios and film sets.
What truly set Wanda apart was her commitment to community philanthropy and female empowerment. She founded Girls Stand Together, an organization dedicated to empowering young women, demonstrating that her influence extended far beyond entertainment into meaningful social impact.
Wanda Smith’s Net Worth at Time of Death
Wanda Smith’s net worth at the time of her death in October 2024 was estimated between $1.5 million and $2 million. This wealth was accumulated through her diverse radio career, comedy performances, television appearances, and various entertainment ventures spanning more than 25 years in the industry.
How She Built Her Fortune
Wanda Smith built her fortune through multiple revenue streams in the entertainment industry:
Radio Broadcasting Salary: As a top-rated morning show host on V-103 Atlanta radio, Wanda commanded a substantial salary. Atlanta radio personality salaries at major stations, such as V-103, for flagship morning shows typically range from $75,000 to over $ 200,000 annually, depending on ratings and experience. With over 20 years at the station across multiple stints, radio broadcasting formed the foundation of Wanda Smith’s net worth.
Stand-Up Comedy: Her stand-up comedy career provided significant supplemental income. Performing at comedy clubs throughout Atlanta and touring nationally, established comedians can earn $1,000 to $10,000+ per performance. Wanda Smith performed regularly at venues like the Atlanta Comedy Theater and appeared on BET Comicview, building her reputation in the comedy circuit.
Television and Film: Her appearances in Tyler Perry’s Madea films and work as a Def Comedy Jam writer added to her wealth. Tyler Perry projects typically pay performers well, and her multiple appearances across different films contributed meaningfully to her overall net worth.
Writing Credits: As a comedy writing contributor to Def Comedy Jam, one of HBO’s most successful comedy series, she earned both compensation and industry credibility that opened additional opportunities.
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Income Sources Breakdown
| Income Source | Estimated Annual Range | Contribution to Net Worth |
|---|---|---|
| V-103 Radio Salary | $100,000 – $150,000 | Primary (50-60%) |
| Stand-Up Comedy | $25,000 – $50,000 | Secondary (15-20%) |
| Film Appearances | $15,000 – $30,000 | Supplemental (10-15%) |
| Television Work | $10,000 – $25,000 | Supplemental (5-10%) |
| Writing/Royalties | $5,000 – $15,000 | Residual (5-10%) |
Net Worth Growth Over the Years
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Career Milestone |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | $150,000 – $200,000 | Established at V-103 with Frank Ski |
| 2005 | $400,000 – $500,000 | Peak Frank and Wanda Morning Show ratings |
| 2010 | $750,000 – $900,000 | Tyler Perry film appearances begin |
| 2015 | $1.0 – $1.2 million | Returned to V-103, expanded comedy tours |
| 2019 | $1.3 – $1.5 million | Departure from V-103, independent projects |
| 2024 | $1.5 – $2.0 million | Final estimated net worth at time of death |
Early Life and Background
Childhood in Miami
Wanda Smith was born on October 11, 1966, in Miami, Florida, where she spent her formative years. Growing up in Miami during the 1970s and early 1980s exposed her to a rich cultural environment that would later influence her comedic style and radio personality. Miami’s diverse community and vibrant entertainment scene planted the seeds for her future career in broadcasting.
From an early age, Wanda displayed a natural talent for making people laugh. Friends and family recognized her quick wit and infectious personality, traits that would become her trademark in the entertainment industry. Her childhood experiences in Florida shaped her perspective and gave her the authentic Southern charm that would resonate so powerfully with Atlanta audiences later in her career.
The move from Miami, Florida, to Atlanta, Georgia, proved pivotal in Wanda Smith’s journey. Atlanta’s growing status as a hub for urban radio and African-American entertainment provided the perfect environment for her talents to flourish.
Education and Early Influences
While specific details about Wanda Smith’s formal education remain limited, her early influences were deeply rooted in comedy and radio. She grew up listening to pioneering radio personalities who demonstrated that humor could be intelligent, relatable, and socially conscious. Classic comedians like Richard Pryor, Moms Mabley, and, later, Eddie Murphy influenced her comedic sensibilities.
Wanda Smith studied the art of stand-up comedy by watching legendary performers and understanding what made audiences connect with certain stories and delivery styles. She learned that authenticity was crucial—that the best comedy came from real experiences and genuine emotion.
Her education extended beyond formal schooling into the real-world classroom of radio broadcasting and live performance. She absorbed lessons from every open mic night, every radio shift, and every conversation with experienced entertainers who shared their knowledge.
Path to Entertainment
Wanda Smith’s path to entertainment began with stand-up comedy performances in local clubs and venues. Starting in the 1990s, she performed at various comedy clubs throughout the Atlanta area, honing her craft and building a reputation as a talented comedian with impeccable timing and relatable material.
Her transition into radio broadcasting came through persistence and talent. She started at V-103 Atlanta in the late 1990s, initially in behind-the-scenes roles before moving on-air. Her natural ability to connect with listeners, combined with her comedic background, made her an immediate standout in urban radio.
The opportunity to co-host with Frank Ski on the Frank and Wanda Morning Show became the breakthrough that defined her career. This partnership showcased her abilities to a massive audience and established her as one of Atlanta’s most beloved morning show host personalities.
Career Journey and Major Achievements
Stand-Up Comedy Beginnings
Wanda Smith’s career in stand-up comedy began in Atlanta’s thriving comedy scene during the 1990s. She performed at local venues, comedy clubs, and open mic nights, developing her unique voice and style. Her comedy drew from everyday experiences, relationships, and observations about life in the South, making her material highly relatable to diverse audiences.
As a comedian, Wanda had a gift for storytelling. She could take ordinary situations and find the humor within them, delivering punchlines with perfect timing and an infectious laugh that made audiences laugh along with her. Her performances on BET Comicview introduced her to national audiences and demonstrated her ability to hold her own among the best comedians in the country.
The Atlanta Comedy Theater and similar venues became regular stops for Wanda Smith, where she built a loyal following. Her comedy addressed topics from family dynamics to current events, all filtered through her sharp wit and Southern sensibility.
V-103 and Frank & Wanda Morning Show
The Frank and Wanda Morning Show on V-103 Atlanta radio represented the pinnacle of Wanda Smith’s radio career. Partnering with legendary Atlanta radio personality Frank Ski in the late 1990s, she became part of one of the most successful morning programs in Southern radio broadcasting.
V-103 (WVEE-FM) was Atlanta’s premier urban radio station, and the morning show consistently dominated ratings for over a decade. Frank Ski co-hosted chemistry with Wanda, creating magic on the airwaves—their banter, humor, and genuine friendship resonated with listeners who tuned in daily.
The show’s format blended music, comedy sketches, celebrity interviews, community news, and listener interaction. Wanda Smith brought her comedic talents to create memorable characters and bits that became show staples. Her ability to improvise and play off Frank Ski made every broadcast feel fresh and spontaneous.
From 1998 to 2012, the Frank and Wanda Morning Show achieved remarkable success, consistently ranking #1 or #2 in the Atlanta market. This 14-year run established both hosts as Atlanta entertainment royalty. Even after their initial departure in 2012, the demand for their reunion led to Wanda Smith returning to V-103 multiple times, including a 2018 reunion with Frank Ski.
Wanda Smith remained connected to V-103 Atlanta throughout much of her career, with her final departure coming in January 2019. Her contributions to the station and Atlanta radio are immeasurable, having helped shape the sound and culture of urban morning radio in the South.
Television and Film Appearances
Wanda Smith’s talents extended beyond radio into television and film. Her work as a film actress included appearances in several Tyler Perry Madea films, where she brought her comedic timing to the big screen. Tyler Perry’s movies, known for blending comedy with meaningful life lessons, provided the perfect platform for Wanda’s style of humor.
Her television appearances included BET Comicview, one of the longest-running stand-up comedy shows in television history. Performing on this platform exposed her to national audiences and solidified her reputation in the stand-up comedy world.
Wanda Smith also made guest appearances on various television programs, talk shows, and comedy specials throughout her career. Each appearance showcased her versatility as an entertainer—comfortable whether performing scripted material or engaging in spontaneous conversation.
Writing for Def Comedy Jam
As a Def Comedy Jam writer, Wanda Smith contributed to one of HBO’s most influential comedy series. Def Comedy Jam, which ran from 1992 to 1997 (with revivals afterward), was a groundbreaking show that launched the careers of numerous comedians and changed the landscape of stand-up comedy on television.
Her work in comedy writing demonstrated her understanding of what made material work for different performers and audiences. Writing for comedy requires a different skill set than performing—understanding structure, timing on the page, and how to craft setups and punchlines that translate through someone else’s voice.
This experience enriched Wanda Smith’s own performances, making her a more well-rounded entertainer who understood comedy from multiple perspectives.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout her career, Wanda Smith received numerous awards and recognition for her contributions to radio broadcasting and comedy. While she remained humble about her achievements, industry peers and Atlanta audiences consistently celebrated her work.
V-103 and the Frank and Wanda Morning Show received multiple industry awards for ratings dominance and community impact. Wanda Smith’s individual contributions were recognized through various Atlanta entertainment awards and community honors.
Beyond formal awards, her greatest recognition came from the loyal listeners who made her show appointment listening every morning. The impact she had on Atlanta’s culture and the urban radio landscape represents her most significant achievement.
Personal Life and Family
Marriage to LaMorris Sellers
Wanda Smith was married to LaMorris Sellers, and their relationship represented an important foundation in her life. While she maintained relative privacy about her personal life despite her public career, Wanda Smith husband, LaMorris Sellers, supported her throughout her journey in the entertainment industry.
LaMorris Sellers occasionally appeared in public alongside Wanda at events and community gatherings. The couple navigated the challenges of maintaining a marriage while one partner lived in the spotlight of radio broadcasting and public entertainment.
Their relationship became part of public attention during the Katt Williams controversy in 2018, when LaMorris Sellers was involved in a confrontation with the comedian following an on-air incident. This event highlighted the protective nature of their relationship and the challenges that come when personal and professional lives intersect in the public sphere.
Children and Family Values
Wanda Smith was a devoted mother to her three children: Tavares, Giovanni, and Isaiah. Despite the demanding schedule of a morning show host (which typically requires waking up between 3-4 AM), she prioritized her family and made sure her children remained central to her life.
How many children did Wanda Smith have? She had three sons whom she often mentioned with pride in interviews and on-air conversations. While she protected their privacy by not extensively discussing them publicly, it was clear that motherhood was one of her most important roles.
Her family values reflected her Southern upbringing and Christian faith. She believed in hard work, respect, education, and giving back to the community—principles she instilled in her children. Balancing her career in Atlanta entertainment with motherhood wasn’t always easy, but Wanda made it work through dedication and strong family support systems.
Friends and colleagues often remarked on how Wanda Smith could be hilarious on the radio one moment and then switch to discussing her children with genuine tenderness and pride. This balance between her public persona and private family life endeared her to audiences who saw her as relatable and authentic.
Girls Stand Together Initiative
Wanda Smith founded Girls Stand Together, a community philanthropy organization focused on female empowerment and supporting young women. This initiative reflected her commitment to giving back and using her platform for positive social impact beyond entertainment.
Girls Stand Together worked to provide mentorship, resources, and support for young women facing challenges in education, career development, and personal growth. The organization embodied Wanda’s belief that successful women have a responsibility to lift up the next generation.
Through Girls Stand Together, Wanda Smith participated in workshops, speaking engagements at schools, and community events designed to inspire and empower girls. She shared her own journey—the obstacles she faced and overcame—to show young women that success was possible regardless of their starting point.
This work in community philanthropy demonstrated that Wanda understood her influence extended beyond making people laugh. She wanted to make a lasting difference in her community, particularly for young women who might face similar challenges she had encountered in her own career.
The Katt Williams Controversy
In September 2018, Wanda Smith became involved in a highly publicized incident with comedian Katt Williams during a radio interview on V-103 Atlanta. The Katt Williams controversy became one of the most talked-about moments in recent urban radio history and significantly impacted Wanda’s career trajectory.
During the interview on the Frank and Wanda Morning Show, what began as typical banter escalated into a heated exchange. Katt Williams and Wanda Smith traded insults on-air, with the comedian making personal comments that many listeners felt crossed professional boundaries. Wanda responded in kind, and the confrontation became increasingly uncomfortable as it continued.
Video clips of the Wanda Smith Katt Williams incident went viral on social media, generating millions of views and intense public debate. Some felt Williams was unnecessarily harsh toward Wanda, while others criticized how the situation was handled on-air. The incident highlighted the sometimes volatile nature of live radio broadcasting when tensions arise during interviews.
The controversy escalated beyond the studio when reports emerged that Wanda Smith husband, LaMorris Sellers, confronted Katt Williams in a parking lot following the radio incident. According to various accounts, there was an altercation, with allegations that a weapon was involved, though details remained disputed and no charges were filed.
This incident had significant professional consequences. The negative publicity and ongoing attention contributed to Wanda Smith’s departure from V-103 Atlanta radio in January 2019, just a few months after the controversy. What happened to Wanda Smith V-103? The Katt Williams situation, combined with other factors, led to the end of her long association with the station.
The controversy represented a difficult chapter in Wanda Smith’s otherwise celebrated career. It demonstrated how quickly situations can spiral in the age of social media and viral content, and how personal and professional consequences can follow public confrontations. Despite this challenging period, Wanda continued working in entertainment and maintained her dignity throughout the aftermath.
Life After V-103 (2019-2024)
Comedy Performances
Following her departure from V-103 Atlanta in 2019, Wanda Smith returned her focus to stand-up comedy and live performances. She continued performing at comedy clubs and venues throughout Atlanta and Georgia, reconnecting with the stand-up comedy roots that launched her career.
These comedy performances allowed her more creative freedom than radio broadcasting provided. She could develop longer-form material, control her schedule, and interact directly with audiences who had followed her career for decades. Her shows often sold out, demonstrating that her fan base remained strong and loyal despite her radio departure.
Wanda Smith’s comedic performances during this period reflected her decades of experience. Her material was polished, her timing impeccable, and her ability to read and respond to audiences showcased her mastery of the craft. She performed at various Atlanta venues, continuing to make people laugh as she had throughout her career.
Community Work
Community philanthropy remained central to Wanda Smith’s life after leaving V-103. She increased her involvement with Girls Stand Together and other charitable organizations, using her name recognition and influence to support causes she cared about deeply.
Wanda Smith participated in community events, charity fundraisers, and youth mentorship programs throughout Atlanta. Her community work focused particularly on education, female empowerment, and supporting families in need. She made appearances at schools, churches, and community centers, sharing her story and encouraging others to pursue their dreams.
This period allowed her to deepen her impact beyond entertainment. While she had always been involved in charity work during her radio career, having more control over her schedule enabled Wanda Smith to expand these efforts and connect more directly with communities that needed support.
Recent Projects
Between 2019 and 2024, Wanda Smith explored various projects in the entertainment industry. She made occasional guest appearances on podcasts, web series, and other digital media platforms that were emerging as alternatives to traditional radio broadcasting.
She also worked on developing potential new shows and content that would leverage her experience while adapting to changing media landscapes. While many of these projects remained in development stages, they demonstrated her willingness to evolve with the industry rather than rest on past achievements.
Wanda Smith maintained her presence on social media, connecting with fans and sharing glimpses of her life and work. Her digital engagement showed that she understood the importance of staying relevant in an increasingly online entertainment world.
These years represented a transition period as she navigated life after her decades-long radio career. While she may not have been as visible as during her V-103 years, she remained active and engaged in entertainment and community work until her passing in October 2024.
Wanda Smith’s Legacy and Impact
Contributions to Atlanta Radio
Wanda Smith’s contributions to Atlanta radio are immeasurable. For over two decades, she was a defining voice in urban radio, helping shape what morning programming could be in Southern markets. The Frank and Wanda Morning Show set standards for engagement, humor, and community connection that influenced radio programming across the region.
As an Atlanta radio personality, she demonstrated that women could be just as successful and dominant in morning drive radio—traditionally a male-dominated time slot. Her success opened doors for other female broadcasters and proved that audiences responded to authentic personalities regardless of gender.
V-103 Atlanta benefited tremendously from her presence. The ratings success she generated, combined with the loyalty she inspired in listeners, made the station a powerhouse in the market for years. Her impact on V-103 and Atlanta entertainment continues to be felt even after her passing.
Breaking Barriers in Comedy
As a comedian and film actress, Wanda Smith broke barriers in an industry that hasn’t always been welcoming to women, particularly women of color. Her success in stand-up comedy, on BET Comicview, and as a Def Comedy Jam writer demonstrated her versatility and talent across multiple comedy platforms.
She proved that Southern women could succeed in comedy without sacrificing their authenticity or changing who they were to fit industry expectations. Her style—warm, relatable, and genuinely funny—created space for other comedians to embrace their own unique voices.
Wanda Smith’s work in Tyler Perry Madea films introduced her comedy to even broader audiences, showing her range as a performer who could work in different entertainment mediums while maintaining her signature style and personality.
Community Philanthropy
Perhaps Wanda Smith’s most lasting legacy is her community philanthropy work. Through Girls Stand Together and various other charitable efforts, she made a tangible difference in people’s lives beyond entertainment.
Her commitment to female empowerment, education, and community support demonstrated that she understood the responsibility that came with her platform. She didn’t just want to be famous or successful—she wanted to use her success to lift others up.
Colleagues and community leaders consistently praised Wanda Smith’s generosity, both with her time and resources. She participated in countless charity events, supported local causes, and mentored young people who aspired to careers in radio broadcasting or entertainment.
This aspect of her legacy may outlast even her entertainment contributions, as the people she helped and inspired continue to carry forward the lessons and support she provided.
Her Final Days and Passing
Wanda Smith passed away on October 12, 2024, just one day after her 58th birthday. When did Wanda Smith die? Her death came as a shock to the Atlanta community and fans across the country who had followed her career for decades.
The specific cause of Wanda Smith’s death was not immediately made public, as the family requested privacy during their time of grief. The sudden nature of her passing made the loss even more difficult for those who knew and loved her.
News of her death spread quickly through social media and news outlets. V-103 Atlanta released a heartfelt statement: “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.”
Frank Ski, her longtime co-host and friend, shared emotional tributes highlighting not just their professional partnership but their deep friendship. He emphasized her generosity, describing her as “the biggest giver” who consistently supported community causes and helped people in need.
Tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry, with comedians, radio personalities, and fans sharing memories and expressing condolences. Many highlighted her infectious laugh, her warm personality, and the genuine care she showed for everyone she encountered.
The outpouring of love following her death demonstrated the profound impact Wanda Smith had on so many lives. From listeners who started every morning with her voice, to young women she mentored, to colleagues who worked alongside her—everyone had stories of how she touched their lives.
Her funeral services in Atlanta drew hundreds of mourners, including prominent figures from radio broadcasting, stand-up comedy, and the Atlanta community. The celebration of her life focused on her humor, her generosity, and the legacy she created through decades of bringing joy to others.
How old was Wanda Smith?
She was 58 years old at the time of her passing, leaving many to wonder what additional contributions she might have made had she lived longer. Her death serves as a reminder to celebrate the impact people make while they’re here and to honor their memory by continuing the work they began.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wanda Smith’s net worth?
Wanda Smith Net worth at the time of her death in October 2024 was estimated between $1.5 million and $2 million. She accumulated this wealth through her successful radio career at V-103 Atlanta, stand-up comedy performances, appearances in Tyler Perry Madea films, and work as a Def Comedy Jam writer. Her diverse income streams across multiple entertainment platforms contributed to building her overall financial success.
How old was Wanda Smith when she died?
Wanda Smith was 58 years old when she passed away on October 12, 2024. She was born on October 11, 1966, meaning she died just one day after celebrating her 58th birthday. Her relatively young age at death shocked the Atlanta community and fans who expected her to continue contributing to entertainment for many more years.
Who is Wanda Smith’s husband?
Wanda Smith’s husband, LaMorris Sellers, was married to her throughout much of her career. LaMorris Sellers maintained a relatively private life despite his wife’s public profile. He became known to wider audiences during the 2018 Katt Williams controversy when he was involved in a confrontation with the comedian following an on-air incident at V-103.
What happened to Wanda Smith at V-103?
What happened to Wanda Smith V-103? Wanda Smith departed from V-103 Atlanta radio in January 2019, several months after the controversial Katt Williams incident in September 2018. The on-air confrontation and subsequent events contributed to her leaving the station after a long and successful career. She had multiple stints at V-103, with her association with the station spanning over 20 years across different periods.
How many children did Wanda Smith have?
Wanda Smith had three children: Tavares, Giovanni, and Isaiah. She was a devoted mother who balanced her demanding career as a morning show host with her family responsibilities. While she protected her children’s privacy, she often spoke with pride about her sons in interviews and on-air conversations.
What movies was Wanda Smith in?
Wanda Smith appeared in several Tyler Perry Madea films, showcasing her talents as a film actress. Tyler Perry’s movies blend comedy with meaningful life lessons, providing an excellent platform for Wanda’s comedic style. She also made various television appearances on shows like BET Comicview and contributed to Def Comedy Jam as a writer.
When did Wanda Smith die?
She passed away on October 12, 2024, one day after her 58th birthday. Her death was sudden and unexpected, shocking the Atlanta community and entertainment industry. The specific cause of death was not immediately made public, as the family requested privacy during their grief.
What was the Katt Williams and Wanda Smith incident?
The Wanda Smith Katt Williams incident occurred in September 2018 during a radio interview on the Frank and Wanda Morning Show at V-103. What began as typical interview banter escalated into a heated on-air confrontation with traded insults. Video of the Katt Williams controversy went viral on social media.
Was Wanda Smith still on the radio before she died?
No, Wanda Smith was not on the radio at the time of her death in October 2024. She had left V-103 Atlanta radio in January 2019 and did not return to regular radio broadcasting after that. Between 2019 and 2024, she focused on stand-up comedy performances, community work, and various entertainment projects, but not traditional radio broadcasting.
What was Wanda Smith’s role on the Frank and Wanda Morning Show?
On the Frank and Wanda Morning Show, Wanda Smith served as co-host alongside Frank Ski on V-103 Atlanta. She brought her comedic talents, created memorable characters and sketches, conducted interviews, and interacted with listeners.
Her chemistry with Frank Ski’s co-host partnership made the show one of Atlanta’s highest-rated morning programs for over a decade. She wasn’t just a sidekick—she was an equal partner who contributed significantly to the show’s success.
Did Wanda Smith win any awards?
While specific award names aren’t widely documented, Wanda Smith and the Frank and Wanda Morning Show received multiple industry recognitions for ratings success and community impact. She was honored by various Atlanta organizations for her community philanthropy work and contributions to Atlanta entertainment. Her greatest recognition came from loyal listeners and the lasting impact she made on urban radio and Atlanta culture.
What was Girls Stand Together?
Girls Stand Together was a community philanthropy organization founded by Wanda Smith, focused on female empowerment. The initiative provided mentorship, resources, and support for young women, helping them overcome challenges in education, career development, and personal growth.
How did Wanda Smith start her comedy career?
Wanda Smith started her stand-up comedy career performing at local comedy clubs and open mic nights in Atlanta during the 1990s. She honed her craft through countless performances, developing her unique style that drew from everyday experiences and Southern life. Her success in stand-up comedy led to opportunities on BET Comicview and as a Def Comedy Jam writer, eventually opening doors to radio broadcasting and the career-defining role at V-103.
What is Wanda Smith’s legacy in Atlanta?
Wanda Smith’s legacy in Atlanta encompasses her groundbreaking work in radio broadcasting, contributions to stand-up comedy, and commitment to community philanthropy. She helped define what urban radio morning shows could be, broke barriers for women in broadcasting, and used her platform for female empowerment through initiatives like Girls Stand Together. The Atlanta radio personality made the city laugh every morning for decades while simultaneously working to improve her community—a legacy that continues inspiring others.
Where was Wanda Smith born?
Wanda Smith was born in Miami, Florida, on October 11, 1966. She later moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where she built her career in radio broadcasting and stand-up comedy. While she was born in Miami, she became synonymous with Atlanta, spending most of her adult life and career in the city that embraced her as one of its own beloved entertainment figures.
Conclusion: Remembering Wanda Smith’s Legacy
Wanda Smith was far more than an Atlanta radio personality or comedian—she was a cultural icon who shaped the sound and spirit of urban radio in the South for over two decades. From her beginnings in Miami, Florida, to becoming one of the most recognized voices on V-103 Atlanta, her journey embodied perseverance, talent, and authenticity.
Her work on the Frank and Wanda Morning Show alongside Frank Ski created morning radio magic that set standards for engagement, humor, and community connection. For 14 consecutive years at their peak, they dominated Atlanta’s airwaves, consistently ranking #1 or #2 in the market. This success demonstrated Wanda Smith’s ability to connect with audiences in a genuine, relatable way that transcended typical entertainment.
Beyond radio broadcasting, her contributions to stand-up comedy as a performer and Def Comedy Jam writer showcased her versatility across multiple entertainment platforms. Her appearances in Tyler Perry’s Madea films brought her humor to movie audiences, while her work on BET Comicview established her national reputation in comedy.