Wendy Williams, the former host of the 'Wendy Williams Show,' has faced a series of health challenges that have impacted her career. In February 2024, Williams revealed that she had been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia and aphasia, adding to her existing health issues.
Williams' health struggles became public in October 2017 when she fainted on live television during a Halloween episode. She attributed the incident to overheating in her costume but later faced more serious health concerns.
In February 2018, Williams canceled show tapings due to flu-like symptoms, marking her first sick day in 25 years. She later faced hospitalizations in January 2019 due to Graves' disease, leading to a hiatus from her talk show.
Substance abuse also played a role in Williams' health battles. In 2019, she revealed her struggles with addiction and checked into a sober living facility. Her personal life faced turmoil as her marriage ended amid her husband's alleged affair.
Williams also dealt with lymphedema, a condition causing swelling in the limbs, and underwent treatment to manage its effects. Her health issues continued, leading to a significant weight loss and further rehab stints for substance abuse.
In 2021, Williams entered a wellness center and later faced a court-ordered guardianship due to her health status. Her journey was documented in a Lifetime documentary released in February 2024.
Frontotemporal dementia and aphasia were the latest diagnoses for Williams, highlighting the complexity of her health challenges. Despite these setbacks, Williams' team emphasized her resilience and maintained her sense of humor throughout her struggles.
The decision to share her diagnosis was aimed at raising awareness about these conditions and advocating for understanding and compassion for individuals facing similar circumstances. Williams continues to receive medical care and support as she navigates her health journey.