“How you doin’?”
This is how the infamous (some might say iconic) Wendy Williams would greet her guests on her talk show, which ran for 13 seasons from 2008 to 2022.
Williams, 59, has been diagnosed with both primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia in 2023. This was revealed in a statement shared by her care team. While dementia affects a person’s memory, aphasia impacts their communication ability. Both diagnoses “have already presented significant hurdles in Wendy’s life,” per the statement.
Aphasia is a condition that affects a person’s ability to communicate. It often occurs after a stroke or brain injury and can make it difficult for someone to speak, understand language, read, or write. Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. It is not a specific disease but a group of symptoms associated with decreased memory, reasoning, and communication skills. The condition is progressive, meaning symptoms worsen over time, but early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
In a currently-airing controversial documentary about her life, her son, Kevin Hunter JR, claimed that her dementia was alcohol-related.
Williams broke her silence and thanked her fans for their support. In a statement, Williams, 59, thanked fans for their “overwhelming” support in the hours following the news. “Let me say, wow! Your response has been overwhelming. The messages shared with me have touched me, reminding me of the power of unity and the need for compassion,” she said.
Williams began her career as a radio personality and quickly became known for her controversial and outspoken style. She later transitioned to television, hosting “The Wendy Williams Show,” which became a popular daytime talk show known for its celebrity interviews and gossip segments.
She has been involved in several high-profile feuds with celebrities over the years. Some of these include:
- 50 Cent: Williams and rapper 50 Cent have had a long-standing feud that has played out both on social media and in the press. The feud began after Wendy commented about 50 Cent’s personal life and career, leading to a series of back-and-forth exchanges.
- Whitney Houston: Williams and the late Whitney Houston had a contentious relationship that dates back to the 1990s. Wendy was known for her harsh criticism of Whitney, particularly regarding her struggles with addiction. The feud continued until Whitney died in 2012.
- Lil’ Kim: What’s the deal with Wendy and rappers? Williams and rapper Lil’ Kim, have had a strained relationship for years, with Lil’ Kim accusing Wendy of spreading false rumours and being biased in her reporting.
Williams has significantly impacted pop culture and has been credited with popularising the gossip talk show format. Her show became a must-watch for fans looking to stay up-to-date on celebrity news and scandals. Hopefully, with the care she’s getting, we’ll get to hear that iconic “How you doin’?” once again.
