Wendy Williams, the iconic television host who rose to fame with her talk show, has openly denied claims that she is “cognitively impaired,” as she addressed her ongoing guardianship and health condition. Williams, 60, made the statements during a recent phone-in to The Breakfast Club, revealing her frustration with her current living situation.
For nearly a year, Wendy Williams has been living under the guardianship of lawyer Sabrina Morrissey. The star, once known for her unfiltered opinions on her eponymous talk show, was placed under guardianship after being diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia in 2022. These conditions, which impact her ability to communicate, comprehend language, and exhibit behavioral changes, have led to concerns about her health and financial well-being.
Despite her diagnosis, Williams insists that she is not cognitively impaired. In her call to The Breakfast Club, she shared, “I am not cognitively impaired, you know what I’m saying? But I feel like I’m in prison.” She expressed her dissatisfaction with her care facility, where she resides alongside elderly residents in their 70s, 80s, and 90s. Williams described feeling out of place, emphasizing that the environment did not align with her capabilities or needs.
The star’s niece, Alex, also phoned into the show to offer her support, echoing Wendy’s sentiments. She explained that while she has had limited interaction with her aunt, Williams “sounds great” and her communication abilities do not match the description of someone incapacitated. Alex voiced her concern, suggesting that Wendy was being unfairly “punished” and compared her situation to a “luxury prison,” where she is being held against her will.
Williams’ health team first disclosed her diagnosis last year, highlighting the challenges of aphasia and dementia. In a press release, they explained that the decision to make her condition public was made after careful consideration. The goal was to foster understanding and compassion for Williams while raising awareness about the struggles faced by individuals diagnosed with similar conditions.
While Williams has faced significant stigma due to her behavioral changes, her supporters continue to advocate for her autonomy. The situation raises important questions about the complexities of guardianship and the fine line between care and control. As Williams seeks to regain control over her life, her fans and loved ones continue to rally behind her, calling for a reconsideration of her current circumstances.
