Daytime talk show/radio personality legend, Wendy Williams, has recently been diagnosed with dementia and aphasia, leaving her family and fans heartbroken. Williams – known for her straight up, forward personality – has been facing health challenges in recent years, and her loved ones have finally shared their perspective on her personal journey, including Wendy’s niece and sister.
The Diagnosis
Last year, at the age of 59, Wendy Williams received the devastating news that she was diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia. These conditions affect language and cognitive abilities, causing difficulties in communicating and understanding. Williams’ representatives have emphasized the importance of her current care team and the specialized medical care she’s receiving.
Wendy’s Family Speaks Out, Say They’re Being Kept Away From Her
In a recent People magazine cover story, Wendy’s family members opened up about the challenges she has been facing. Alex Finnie, Wendy’s niece and Miami news anchor, expressed her shock and heartbreak, stating, “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. It was shocking and heartbreaking to see her in this state.”
Wanda Finnie, Wendy’s sister and Alex’s mother, revealed the family’s struggle to maintain contact, saying, “The people who love her cannot see her. We can call her, but she cannot call us, and we do not even know where she is currently living.”
The Impact
Williams’ diagnosis has not only affected her personal life but has also had a significant impact on her professional career. In March 2019, she publicly disclosed her residence in a sober house, followed by a high-profile divorce from her ex-husband, Kevin Hunter. Subsequently, her talk show faced production delays and eventually came to an end in 2022 when she took medical leave due to her battle with Graves’ disease.
Williams’ Experience Mirrors Bruce Willis’ Diagnosis
Interestingly, Williams’ diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia and aphasia mirrors that of actor Bruce Willis. Willis was first diagnosed with aphasia in 2022 before receiving the frontotemporal dementia diagnosis. Both conditions affect language and communication skills and can have a significant impact on a person’s life.
Moving Forward
Currently, Wendy Williams resides in an undisclosed care facility, receiving the specialized medical care she requires. Her journey is being documented in the upcoming Lifetime documentary, “Where is Wendy Williams?,” exploring her abrupt exit from public life. This two-part documentary follows the biopic and documentary released in 2021, shedding light on the complexities of Williams’ life and career.
The heartbreaking news of Wendy Williams’ diagnosis with dementia and aphasia has left her family and fans deeply saddened, understandably so. Facing health challenges and navigating the realities of her condition, Williams continues to receive the care and support she needs. As we reflect on her journey, we can only hope for her well-being and commend her family for sharing their honest and emotional perspective. Wendy Williams’ impact on the entertainment game will always be remembered, and her strength and resilience in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to us all.
