Rita Odafe
Wendy Williams, a well-known American TV host and media figure, has now been declared “permanently incapacitated.” This news follows her recent diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia and aphasia, which was made public only a few months ago.
According to fresh court filings obtained by the US Sun, the 60-year-old star’s health has significantly worsened, as detailed by her legal guardian, Sabrina Morrissey. The documents describe Williams as “an acclaimed entertainer who has unfortunately suffered from early-onset dementia, resulting in cognitive impairments and a permanent incapacity.”
The filing noted that, due to troubling incidents regarding her welfare and financial stability, the financial institution Wells Fargo took the unusual measure of establishing guardianship over her financial matters back in January 2022.
This recent legal filing is part of an ongoing dispute relating to Lifetime’s documentary titled *Where Is Wendy Williams?*. The documents request the court to redact details concerning Williams’ “health, family relationships, and finances” to protect her privacy.
The two-part documentary, which highlights concerns around her health and struggles with alcohol, has faced controversy since its announcement for February airing. Morrissey’s initial attempt to stop the documentary’s release was denied, being deemed a violation of the First Amendment.
In September, she submitted an amended complaint against Lifetime and its production partners. The case has since moved from New York Supreme Court to federal court.
Prior to the release of the documentary, Wendy’s care team addressed the public, outlining her medical situation. They acknowledged her past openness about health issues, including Graves’ Disease and Lymphedema, but noted that questions had recently arisen regarding her cognitive abilities.
They explained that in 2023, after extensive medical evaluations, Wendy was diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia. The team emphasized that these conditions posed “significant challenges” in Wendy’s daily life.
The statement concluded: “This decision to disclose her condition was made thoughtfully, with the goal of fostering understanding and empathy for Wendy while also raising awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia to support others enduring similar challenges.“
