Wendy Williams' Medical Team Confirms Aphasia and Frontotemporal Dementia, Similar to Bruce Willis' Conditions

Wendy Williams has disclosed that she has been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia, as stated in a press release issued by the former talk show host and her medical team.

Wendy Williams, aged 59, known for hosting her namesake talk show "The Wendy Williams Show" for more than ten years, has openly discussed her enduring health challenges, which have included Graves' disease and a thyroid condition.

In 2023, she received diagnoses of primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia, which, according to the press release, have facilitated Wendy in accessing the necessary medical attention. Primary progressive aphasia is categorized as a type of frontotemporal dementia.

The decision to disclose this news was challenging and made after thoughtful deliberation, aiming not only to promote empathy and comprehension for Wendy but also to raise awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia, and to provide support for the numerous individuals confronting similar situations, as highlighted in the press release.

The press release continued by stating that Wendy is still capable of handling many tasks independently. Most notably, she retains her characteristic sense of humor and is receiving the necessary care to ensure her safety and address her needs. Wendy is grateful for the numerous kind thoughts and well wishes directed her way.

According to the National Aphasia Association, primary progressive aphasia is characterized as "a neurological syndrome in which language capabilities become slowly and progressively impaired." Unlike other types of aphasia, it does not stem from a stroke or brain injury, but rather from the "deterioration of brain tissue important for speech and language."

Dementia, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is an overarching term encompassing "the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interferes with everyday activities."

While dementia predominantly impacts older adults, the CDC emphasizes that it is "not a part of normal aging." The organization projects that by 2060, there could be as many as 14 million people living with dementia.

Frontotemporal dementia, as outlined by the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration, arises from the degeneration of the frontal and/or temporal lobes of the brain. It stands as the most prevalent form of dementia among individuals under the age of 60, and presently, there is no known cure.

Williams' niece, Alex Finnie, recently shared insights with "Good Morning America" about the upcoming Lifetime documentary "Where Is Wendy Williams?" premiering on Feb. 24, which was executive produced by Williams herself.

Finnie recounted asking her aunt about her decision to pursue the documentary, particularly given its focus on her health battles, and whether it was the appropriate time. Williams responded, "'Now is the perfect time because I wanna take ownership of my story,'" Finnie recalled.

According to Lifetime, "Where Is Wendy Williams?" promises to offer a "raw, honest, and unfiltered reality" of Williams' recent life experiences, detailing her journey to revive her career and uncovering revelations along the way.