Wendy Williams has been declared “cognitively impaired and permanently incapacitated” as per a legal memo filed by her guardian’s attorneys. The 60-year-old former talk show host has been suffering from early-onset dementia, with a diagnosis of primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia, both of which significantly affect her ability to communicate and have led to changes in behavior and personality.
This legal filing occurred in a New York court on November 12 and is connected to a lawsuit filed by her guardian, Sabrina Morrissey, against several media organizations, including A&E and Lifetime, regarding the release of the docuseries “Where is Wendy Williams?” in February. Morrissey’s legal team requested the court to approve the redaction of sensitive, non-public information from the court documents to protect Williams’ privacy, affirming that the proposed changes do not hinder public understanding of the case’s core facts.
In a previous incident in 2022, Wells Fargo had filed to secure financial guardianship for Williams, arguing she was incapacitated and vulnerable to manipulation. Williams publicly disputed these allegations.
Williams has had a storied career, hosting “The Wendy Williams Show” from 2008 until its cancellation in 2022, a period during which she faced numerous health challenges, including battles with addiction and Graves’ disease. Speculation about her health began in 2017 when she fainted during a live broadcast.
In her current lawsuit, Morrissey alleges that those involved in the docuseries exploited a vulnerable Williams for financial gain. The complaint claims that any profits from the series should be directed to Williams to ensure she receives adequate medical care.
While A&E has not issued a direct comment, they have previously indicated they look forward to presenting their perspective on the matter, claiming it tells a different story regarding Williams’ situation.
Wendy Williams has faced significant challenges, and as she navigates this difficult chapter, there remains hope that the legal proceedings will ensure her well-being and the support she needs. The compassionate response from the public and supporters highlights a desire for her dignity and quality of life during such trying times.
Summary: Wendy Williams has been deemed cognitively impaired due to early-onset dementia, leading her guardian to file a lawsuit against A&E over alleged exploitation in a recent docuseries. The case emphasizes the need for privacy and support for Williams as she navigates her health challenges.