Wendy Williams diagnosed with progressive aphasia, frontotemporal dementia

American TV host Wendy Williams has been diagnosed with progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia, according to a report by CNN citing confirmation from her team. A press release issued by Williams’ care team on Thursday aimed to correct misinformation about her health and address her ongoing medical challenges.

The statement acknowledged Williams’ past openness about her struggles with Graves’ Disease and Lymphedema, as well as other health issues. It also mentioned the speculation and questions regarding her condition due to difficulties with word recall, erratic behavior, and challenges with financial transactions over the years.

Williams’ representatives stated that she was diagnosed with aphasia and dementia by Weill Cornell Medicine in 2023. Frontotemporal dementia affects communication, personality, and language comprehension, according to the Mayo Clinic.

The decision to share this news was described as difficult but made to advocate for understanding and compassion for Williams and to raise awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia. Williams is now under court-appointed guardianship.

A Lifetime documentary produced by Williams and her family is set to be released this weekend, according to CNN. Williams hosted ‘The Wendy Williams Show’ until 2022, when Sherri Shepherd took over her time slot. Williams had been absent from hosting duties since the 13th season due to her health issues.

‘The Wendy Williams Show’ debuted in New York City in 2008 and was known for Williams’ candid and no-filter interviews. She has been open about her struggles with addiction and in 2019, she revealed on the show that she was living in a sober house after seeking treatment for drug addiction. Williams filed for divorce from her husband, Kevin Hunter, in the same year.