Table of Contents
Amid Wendy Williams’ return to public attention, her care team has provided an update on the 59-year-old’s health struggles. Wendy Williams is currently grappling with new health challenges.
The former talk show host, who withdrew from the public eye after The Wendy Williams Show concluded in 2022, has been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia.
Join our Telegram Channel for Updates
According to a statement released on February 22 by the 59-year-old’s care team, these conditions, which actor Bruce Willis has also been diagnosed with, have affected her communication abilities, cognitive functions, and have “already presented significant hurdles in Wendy’s life.”
Despite the challenges, the care team notes that her diagnosis has enabled Williams to receive the specific medical care she requires.
“The decision to share this news was difficult and made after careful consideration, not only to advocate for understanding and compassion for Wendy,” her team explained, “but to raise awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia and support the thousands of others facing similar circumstances.”
“Unfortunately,” the statement continued, “many individuals diagnosed with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia face stigma and misunderstanding, particularly when they begin to exhibit behavioral changes but have not yet received a diagnosis.” Williams’ team emphasized that she is still capable of many self-care activities.
“Most importantly, she maintains her trademark sense of humor and is receiving the care she requires to ensure she is protected and that her needs are addressed,” they concluded. “She is appreciative of the many kind thoughts and good wishes being sent her way.”
This health update on Williams comes just two days before the premiere of her Lifetime documentary Where is Wendy Williams?, providing a rare glimpse into her post-talk show life, including her health and substance abuse struggles.
“Her story is not finished,” said Lifetime’s EVP and Head of Programming Elaine Frontain Bryant in a press release on February 2. “There is so much more to it. Nobody truly knew the depths of Wendy’s reality, so we hope that what our cameras captured can help shine a light on what she is facing now.”
