Former host of “The Wendy Williams Show” has been diagnosed with dementia
Wendy Williams, the former host of “The Wendy Williams Show”, has been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia, the same condition actor Bruce Willis has been diagnosed with, according to a statement issued by her caregivers on Thursday.
This diagnosis has brought significant obstacles in Wendy Williams’ life, affecting her behavior and cognitive functions. Williams’ caregivers mentioned that she is still able to do many things for herself, and are providing her with the care she needs to ensure her protection and well-being. Her caregivers expressed gratitude for the outpouring of well wishes and kind thoughts. The statement was issued to PR Newswire, and a representative declined to provide further comments when contacted by The Associated Press.
The news comes on the heels of a People magazine cover story quoting Williams’ family regarding the nature of her struggles. According to her family, a court-appointed legal guardian is the only person with unrestricted access to Williams. They also expressed their deep concern for Williams’ condition, stating, “The people who love her can’t see her. I think the big (question) is: How the hell did we get here?”
Moreover, a documentary crew that set out to breaking latest news Williams’ comeback stopped filming in April 2023, as the host had entered a facility to treat cognitive issues. Williams’ son has disclosed that his mother’s cognitive problems have been linked to alcohol consumption, as reported by People magazine. Her family mentioned that they do not know her whereabouts and can’t contact her directly, but she is able to reach out to them.
Frontotemporal dementia is associated with a group of brain disorders caused by the degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain and can affect behavior, language, and movement. The average life expectancy after the onset of symptoms is seven to 13 years, and there are currently no treatments to slow or stop the disease, but some interventions can help control symptoms.
The statement credited Weill Cornell Medicine in New York for providing care and expertise to Wendy Williams. Williams’ career included sharing personal details about her health, plastic surgery, and past cocaine addiction.
After the end of her talk show in 2022 due to her ongoing health issues, guest host Sherri Shepherd received her own show. Williams has previously opened up about her Graves’ disease diagnosis in 2018, which can cause a wide range of symptoms and affect overall health.