Wendy Williams’ health has unfortunately declined as she continues to face significant challenges stemming from early-onset dementia and aphasia. The former host of “The Wendy Williams Show,” now 60, is reported to be “cognitively impaired and permanently incapacitated,” according to court documents filed by her guardian, Sabrina Morrissey.
Morrissey is currently pursuing legal action against several media companies, including A&E Television Networks and Lifetime Entertainment Services, regarding the release of “Where is Wendy Williams?,” a documentary that covers Williams’ sudden exit from the public eye, which premiered in February.
In a letter dated November 12, Morrissey noted that Williams, once a celebrated performer, has been taken advantage of in a deeply upsetting way for the profit of others, highlighting the personal and ethical implications of exploiting someone in her precarious condition.
The letter also mentions efforts to keep Williams’ personal information confidential during legal proceedings initiated by her bank, Wells Fargo, aiming to safeguard her finances due to her declining health.
In an earlier statement this year, representatives revealed that Williams had been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia but stressed that she remains capable of managing certain aspects of her life and is actively involved in selecting her care team.
Despite the contentious legal situation surrounding the documentary, which Morrissey attempted to halt on the grounds of her guardian’s inability to consent due to Williams’ health, courtroom rulings have so far favored the broadcast of the series, underscoring the balance between free speech and individual rights in such cases.
Morrissey’s amended complaint argues that Williams received only $82,000 for appearing in a documentary that is deemed exploitative, while the production companies have likely profited immensely from its release. The guardianship attorney has urged that any profits generated from the documentary be redirected to support Williams’ ongoing medical and supervision needs.
While the circumstances surrounding Wendy Williams are sobering, her story highlights important discussions about autonomy, media ethics, and the rights of individuals with cognitive impairments. With the support of her guardian and legal representation, there is hope for Williams to receive the care she needs and to continue advocating for her own interests, which may inspire others facing similar struggles.