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Wendy has been diagnosed with dementia© Bravo

Wendy Williams, 59, diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia and aphasia

Wendy Williams has been open about her health issues

Bryony Gooch
US Writer
February 22, 2024
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Wendy Williams has been formally diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) amid a long battle with other health issues.

The former radio host, 59, has long been open about her health issues, including Graves' Disease and Lymphedema. As further rumors have swirled about her health since the cancellation of The Wendy Williams Show, Wendy's care team shared a personal update with fans on February 22 to set the record straight.

"In 2023, after undergoing a battery of medical tests, Wendy was officially diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD)", the press release read.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 21: Wendy Williams attends a private dinner at Fresco By Scotto on February 21, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)© Johnny Nunez
Wendy in 2023

This comes as "questions have been raised at times about Wendy's ability to process information and many have speculated about Wendy's condition, particularly when she began to lose words, act erratically at times, and have difficulty understanding financial transactions", according to the statement.

Wendy's care team reportedly chose to share this news "after careful consideration, not only to advocate for understanding and compassion for Wendy, but to raise awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia and support the thousands of others facing similar circumstances".

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 28:  Wendy Williams and Ray J seen are walking in soho on June 28, 2021 in New York City.  (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)© Raymond Hall

The statement insisted that Wendy "is still able to do many things for herself", adding that "she maintains her trademark sense of humor and is receiving the care she requires to make sure she is protected and that her needs are addressed. She is appreciative of the many kind thoughts and good wishes being sent her way."

LATE NIGHT WITH SETH MEYERS -- Episode 1160A -- Pictured: Wendy Williams during an interview with host Seth Meyers on June 15, 2021 -- (Photo by: Lloyd Bishop/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images)© NBC
Wendy Williams in 2021

The news comes ahead of a Lifetime two-part documentary spotlighting Wendy's personal life over the past two years, set to be released on February 24 and 25. The network reportedly received "unparalleled access" to her and her family's life in the show.

People reported that Wendy entered a facility to treat "cognitive issues" in April 2023, where she remains "to this day". They added that whether or not Wendy can leave the facility is down to her guardian.

Wendy has remained in the care of an unnamed, court ordered guardian following concerns from her bank Wells Fargo that she was being unduly influenced and was the victim of financial exploitation in 2022. Her guardian oversees not only Wendy's finances, but her health as well; her family are reportedly not contesting her case.

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