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Former talk show host Wendy Williams became famous for her over-the-top celebrity guests and gossip. In 2023, Williams abruptly disappeared from tv screens, and word ultimately leaked that she was suffering from health issues. Today, we know that Williams has been diagnosed with dementia, and she and her estate have become a hot topic of gossip as Williams disputes the need for her guardianship.

Wendy Williams called into The View last week to deny claims about her mental health and guardianship, which allegedly led her to a memory unit in a New York care facility. She criticized her guardian, saying, “I need them to get off my neck. I can’t do it with these two people again.” Williams insisted she wants a new guardian and to be free of guardianship.

Williams also addressed recent headlines following her hospitalization on March 10. She had reportedly dropped a note asking for help from the window of her assisted living facility. After being evaluated at a hospital, she spoke with various TV and radio hosts, including Good Day New York and The Breakfast Club, where she denied being incapacitated.

Legal documents related to Williams’ guardianship are sealed, but Sabrina Morrissey’s involvement became public in February 2024 with the release of the Lifetime docuseries Where Is Wendy Williams? The series explores Williams’ life under guardianship, which has distanced her from her family, as well as her struggles with sobriety.

Morrissey became involved in Williams’ case after Wells Fargo requested guardianship due to concerns over potential financial abuse. Initially, Williams supported the guardianship, believing it would protect her finances. However, she later accused her adult son of mismanaging her money, though he denied the allegations.

In her recent interviews, Williams challenged narratives about her mental health, including claims of cognitive impairment due to frontotemporal dementia. She stated she passed competency tests with “flying colors,” and criticized the conditions at her facility, claiming she’s confined in a memory unit with elderly residents and restricted access to her phone. On The View, she firmly stated, “I don’t want a guardian. I don’t want Sabrina, period.”

Caregiver and healthcare advocate Ginalisa Monterroso in a recent interview accused Wendy Williams’ guardian of manipulating public narratives about the host’s condition. Monterroso claimed the guardian aimed to make the world believe Williams was incapacitated, adding, “Her big mistake was not realizing who Wendy Williams is. Wendy has a platform like ‘The Breakfast Club’ and strong connections, and people will support her.”

If you or a family member is diagnosed with early onset dementia or any other illness that may lead to mental or physical incapacitation, it is important to seek counsel with an experienced estate planning attorney.  The board-certified attorneys at Ford + Bergner can explain your options, assist you in choosing a guardian, and prepare the necessary legal documents that will provide you and your family with a well thought out plan and peace of mind. Please contact us to discuss your estate planning or guardianship needs.