TV star Wendy Williams diagnosed with dementia and aphasia

The guardians of well-known American talk show host, Wendy Williams, have shared a devastating update about her health. 

The 59-year-old, who previously revealed that she suffers from Graves' Disease and Lymphedema, has now been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia​ and frontotemporal dementia. 

"Over the past few years, 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," her team said in a statement. 

The statement revealed that she was diagnosed with dementia and aphasia in 2023. 

"Aphasia, a condition affecting language and communication abilities, and frontotemporal dementia, a progressive disorder impacting behaviour and cognitive functions, have already presented significant hurdles in Wendy's life." 

The star's popular talk show, 'The Wendy Williams Show', was cancelled in 2022 due to her health struggles. She was also placed under financial guardianship. 

A few years earlier, Wendy filed for divorce from her husband of nearly 22 years, Kevin Hunter, after finding out that he made his mistress pregnant. 

Fans hoped that Wendy would bounce back from her personal and health challenges but it seems unlikely that she will return to US television screens. 

"Wendy is still able to do many things for herself. Most importantly she maintains her trademark sense of humour 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."

ALSO READ: Clive Barker 'now at peace' after dementia battle

Wendy suffers from the same form of dementia that actor Bruce Willis has. 

The 'Die Hard' actor officially retired from acting in 2022 due to the condition. His ex-wife, Demi Moore, and his current wife, Emma Heming Willis, have been assisting him since the diagnosis. 

Bruce has three children with Demi - Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah. He also has two girls with Emma named Mabel and Evelyn. The actor's diagnosis has brought the family closer together. 

South African singer Lira also suffers from aphasia. She was diagnosed several months after suffering a stroke in April 2022. 

"I am feeling like myself yet I’m still on my recovery journey. It’s going to take some time- but it’s reversible! This process has been fascinating for me and although it’s quite challenging at times, I am happy. Just to be alive each day is a blessing," she said in September 2022. 

ALSO READ: Demi Moore's advice for families dealing with dementia

Main image credit: YouTube/ The Wendy Williams Show