Amid her ongoing health issues, marital strife, financial problems and the cancellation of her talk show, Wendy Williams has been the subject of multiple headlines in recent years.
Now, Williams and her team have announced the very personal reason behind some of her public struggles.:On Thursday, a press release from the television personality’s representatives confirmed that she’s been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia.
“In 2023, after undergoing a battery of medical tests, Wendy was officially diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD),” the statement reads. “Aphasia, a condition affecting language and communication abilities, and frontotemporal dementia, a progressive disorder impacting behavior and cognitive functions, have already presented significant hurdles in Wendy’s life.”
In 2021, Williams took a leave of absence from her popular daytime talk show as she battled multiple health issues, including COVID-19, Graves’ Disease and Lymphedema. She was never able to return to her show and it was eventually canceled in 2022. In September 2022, she spent around a month in a wellness facility, which led to even more speculation about her health.
“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 and support the thousands of others facing similar circumstances,” the statement reads. “Unfortunately, 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.”
“There is hope that with early detection and far more empathy, the stigma associated with dementia will be eliminated, and those affected will receive the understanding, support, and care they deserve and need,” the statement continues.
Her personal struggles will be on display for the whole world in the upcoming Lifetime documentary, “Where Is Wendy Williams?” Premiering Feb. 24 and 25, the two-part film chronicles her life after her show is canceled and her family’s fight to get Williams healthy.
The star has always been a polarizing figure, but this shocking diagnosis has been met with an outpouring of prayers. Even those who have been critical of her gossip reporting and interview style showed their support for Williams, recognizing the seriousness of her battle.
“Wendy is still able to do many things for herself. Most importantly she maintains her trademark sense of humor and is receiving the care she requires to make sure she is protected and that her needs are addressed,” the statement concludes. “She is appreciative of the many kind thoughts and good wishes being sent her way.”