Producers Reflect on Wendy Williams Documentary Amid Dementia Revelation

The producers of the Wendy Williams documentary express regret over filming the project after learning about her dementia diagnosis, stating that they wouldn’t have proceeded if they had known about her condition beforehand.

Concerns during Filming

Filmed between August 2022 and April 2023, “Where is Wendy Williams?” delves into Williams’s life post-“The Wendy Williams Show.” During filming, concerns arose regarding Williams’s health and the adequacy of her care, particularly in her New York City apartment where she was occasionally left unattended without essential provisions.

Shift in Narrative

Initially, the documentary aimed to capture Williams’s journey toward sobriety and her podcast production. However, concerns about her cognitive health surfaced, altering the intended storyline.

Dementia Diagnosis

In 2023, Williams was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, a condition characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and personality changes. The documentary briefly touches on Williams’s diagnosis, with her son mentioning her “alcohol-induced” dementia.

Producer’s Reflection

Mark Ford, a producer on the project, expressed remorse over not being informed about Williams’s dementia prior to filming. He emphasized that filming wouldn’t have proceeded had they been aware of her condition from the outset.

Legal Battle and Premiere

Ahead of the documentary’s premiere, a legal battle ensued when Williams’s guardian, Sabrina Morrissey, attempted to block its airing. However, a New York court ruled in favor of the documentary’s release, asserting First Amendment rights.

Final Thoughts

Despite the legal challenges and ethical considerations, Ford maintains that preserving Williams’s and her family’s voices is paramount. The documentary stands as a testament to Williams’s life journey, albeit amidst unforeseen revelations about her health.