Wendy Williams has long been a household name, celebrated for her candid style, larger-than-life personality, and groundbreaking career in radio and television. Now 60 years old, Wendy’s life story is a mix of triumphs and struggles that have captivated fans and followers for decades. From her early days as a radio DJ to her iconic daytime TV show, and her more recent health and personal challenges, Wendy’s journey is nothing short of remarkable.
From Radio to TV Royalty
Wendy Williams’ career began after she graduated from Northeastern University, where she studied communications. Her big break came as a disc jockey, hosting shows on major stations like 98.7 KISS FM, Hot 97, and WBLS-FM. Wendy quickly gained a reputation for her unfiltered approach and her willingness to tackle celebrity gossip head-on. Her bold style set her apart in the industry and laid the foundation for her future success.
In 2008, Wendy made the leap to television with The Wendy Williams Show. The syndicated daytime talk show was an instant hit, running for 14 years until its conclusion in 2022. Known for her “Hot Topics” segment and catchphrases like “How you doin’?” Wendy brought a unique energy to daytime TV that endeared her to millions of viewers. Her ability to mix humor, vulnerability, and brutal honesty made her one of the most recognizable faces in entertainment.
Wendy Williams’ Net Worth
Throughout her career, Wendy amassed considerable wealth. According to Celebrity Net Worth, her net worth is currently $5 million. While this figure reflects her success, it also underscores the financial challenges she has faced in recent years. In 2022, Wendy was placed under a court-ordered guardianship to manage her finances and health issues, marking a significant turn in her life.
The Conservatorship Battle
Wendy has spoken openly about the challenges of living under conservatorship. In a heartfelt January 2025 interview with The Breakfast Club, she described feeling trapped and isolated. “I am not cognitively impaired, but I feel like I am in prison,” Wendy shared. She revealed that her day-to-day life is filled with restrictions, from not being able to take walks or travel to being unable to visit family members.
Her emotional account painted a vivid picture of the struggles she faces. “My life is f***** up. I’m definitely isolated. I keep the door closed, I watch TV, listen to the radio, and look out the window,” Wendy said through tears. Her conservatorship has been a contentious topic, with fans and supporters expressing concern about her well-being and advocating for her independence.
Wendy’s Health Journey
Wendy’s health has been a significant challenge in recent years. In 2022, she contracted COVID-19 and experienced complications related to her long-standing battle with Graves’ Disease and lymphedema. That same year, her beloved talk show came to an end, marking the beginning of a difficult period in her life.
In 2024, Wendy’s medical team revealed that she had been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia and aphasia. Despite these diagnoses, Wendy continues to display her signature humor and resilience. In a statement, her medical team emphasized her appreciation for the support and well-wishes from fans, saying, “Wendy is still able to do many things for herself. Most importantly, she maintains her trademark sense of humor and is receiving the care she requires.”
Wendy’s Personal Life
Wendy Williams’ personal life has been as public as her career. She was married to Kevin Hunter for over two decades, and the couple has one son, Kevin Hunter Jr. Their marriage ended in a high-profile divorce in 2019, following allegations of infidelity. Despite the challenges, Wendy has often spoken about her deep love for her son and her commitment to being a supportive mother.
