Wendy Williams’ health has declined significantly in recent years leading to a court-appointed guardianship over her and finances.
A new documentary explores her struggles with addiction, Graves’ disease, and most significantly a diagnosis of primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in 2023.
“The people who love her cannot see her,” Wendy’s sister Wanda said. “I think the big [question] is: How the hell did we get here?”
Her family has not seen her in over a year and communicates through her guardian, expressing confusion over her condition.
“We’ve all seen the images over the last few months — and, really, few years — of what has seemed like a spiral for my aunt,” her niece, Alex Finnie, said. “It was shocking and heartbreaking to see her in this state.”
“She went into where she is now between April and May of last year,” Finnie said. “We went months before we were finally able to get a call.”
She added, “I say this honestly, we went through birthdays, we went through the holidays, we went through illness. There was a period when my grandfather was in the hospital — there was no way to contact her and let her know what was going on with her 93-year-old father.”
Williams exhibited memory loss and confusion on camera. While once open about addiction treatment, her health issues worsened, culminating in the cancellation of her talk show.
Her family worries she is being exploited by others while separated from close contact and care.
The documentary aims to shed light on her condition with her participation, but has renewed concerns about her vulnerability amid a complex legal and medical situation.
“Over the past few years, questions have been raised at times about Wendy’s ability to process information and many have speculated about Wendy’s condition, particularly when she began to lose words, act erratically at times, and have difficulty understanding financial transactions,” a statement read.
“In 2023, after undergoing a battery of medical tests, Wendy was officially diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). 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.”
“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 said. “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.
“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. She is appreciative of the many kind thoughts and good wishes being sent her way.”
