New York – Former talk show host Wendy Williams has been diagnosed with progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia, according to her representatives. The news was shared in a press release on Thursday to “correct inaccurate and hurtful rumors about her health,” a care team for Williams wrote in a statement.
The press release also stated, “As Wendy’s fans are aware, in the past she has been open with the public about her medical struggles with Graves’ Disease and Lymphedema as well as other significant challenges related to her health.” It went on to address how questions had been raised about Wendy’s ability to process information and how many had speculated about her condition.
Williams received her aphasia and dementia diagnoses in 2023 from Weill Cornell Medicine, according to her representatives. The condition impacts communication, personality and the ability to understand language, according to the Mayo Clinic.
“The decision to share this news was difficult and made after careful consideration, not only to advocate for understanding and compassion for Wendy, but to raise awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia,” the press release continued. Williams is currently under a court-ordered guardianship. A Lifetime documentary about and produced by Williams with the participation of her family is set to release this weekend.
Williams was the host of her eponymous “The Wendy Williams Show” until 2022, when Sherri Shepherd took over her time slot. She began her career in radio and developed a reputation for her quick wit and no-filter interviews. She was known for her candor, which also ruffled a few feathers among those in entertainment along the way.
Williams often prided herself on being candid with her viewers as well. She has been open about her previous struggle with addiction. In 2019, she spoke on the show about living in a sober house after seeking treatment for drug use. She filed for divorce from her husband, Kevin Hunter, the same year.