Key Highlights
- Wendy Williams’ lawyer claims she had ‘alcohol-induced dementia’ rather than the previously diagnosed frontotemporal dementia and aphasia.
- A neurologist specializing in Alzheimer’s Disease evaluated Williams and disagreed with her 2023 brain disorder diagnosis.
- The attorney argues that Williams, now sober, is capable of managing herself out of her conservatorship by year’s end.
- Williams’ guardian denies any wrongdoing and states all court-appointed activities are regulated and supervised by the court.
A New Diagnosis for Wendy Williams
In a recent development, Wendy Williams’ lawyer has claimed that her client may not have had the previously diagnosed frontotemporal dementia and aphasia. According to Joe Tacopina, Williams was an alcoholic who suffered from ‘alcohol-induced dementia’ in 2023.
Alcohol-Induced Dementia vs. Frontotemporal Dementia
Tacopina explained that there’s a condition called alcohol-induced dementia which may have been the cause of Williams’ faculties being impacted back then, citing her history as an alcoholic. He emphasized that ‘Wendy was drunk almost 24 hours a day. She looked like she needed help,’ and concluded that she required alcohol rehabilitation.
Williams’ Current Status
It’s important to note that Williams no longer drinks alcohol, according to the lawyer. This could be significant as her current state of sobriety is being used as a basis for arguing that she should exit her court-appointed conservatorship by year-end.
A Legal Battle Over Conservatorship
The claim comes amid ongoing legal disputes over Williams’ guardianship. Her ex-husband, Kevin Williams Hunter, has filed a lawsuit against the current guardian Sabrina E. Morrisey, alleging ‘improper, legally deficient, and overreaching guardianship.’
Williams’ Guardian’s Response
Morrisey’s lawyer defended her actions in a statement to ABC News’ “Nightline,” asserting that she emphatically denies any wrongdoing, mismanagement, or self-dealing. They added that ‘all of the court-appointed guardian’s activities are regulated and supervised by the court.’
Williams’ Health Journey
The legal proceedings come as Williams has been living in an assisted living facility called Coterie in New York City since 2023, following her diagnosis. Despite her living conditions, Sunny Hostin, a long-time friend who frequently interacts with Williams on “The View,” recently spoke to her and noted that ‘she just sounds like the same Wendy.’
Williams has had some public outings, including attending New York Fashion Week. In March 2025, she reportedly passed a competency evaluation, being described by healthcare professionals as alert and oriented during welfare checks.
The Future of Williams’ Conservatorship
The legal battle over Williams’ conservatorship is ongoing with details not fully public. However, it’s clear that the case will continue to unfold in New York federal court, with upcoming responses from defendants due in January 2025.
For those seeking help for mental and substance use disorders, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s free and confidential treatment referral and information service at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). It’s available 24/7 in English and Spanish.
This case highlights the complexities involved in managing public figures, especially those with complex medical histories. The outcome of Williams’ legal battle could have significant implications for her personal life and career going forward.