In a recently released trailer for Lifetime's upcoming two-part documentary, 'Where is Wendy Williams?', the former talk show host breaks her silence on the personal, physical, and financial battles that led to her sudden departure from television. The trailer offers a glimpse into Williams' life since leaving 'The Wendy Williams Show' in July 2021, shedding light on her health struggles, legal issues, and the impact they have had on her career and personal life.
The trailer begins with Williams reflecting on her childhood dream of fame, stating, 'Since I was six years old, all I wanted was to be famous.' As chants from devoted fans fill the background, scenes from her successful talk show and pivotal moments in her career, such as receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, are showcased.
Despite reaching 'the peak of her career,' as mentioned in a voiceover, Williams vanished from the public eye without explanation. The trailer hints at her return to the spotlight, showing her preparing for her first appearance on camera in three years. Overwhelmed with emotion, Williams asks the crew, 'Are we ready?'
Throughout the trailer, glimpses of Williams needing assistance to walk and struggling physically become evident, raising concerns about her health. In a heartbreaking exchange with her son, Kevin Hunter Jr., she expresses her desire to be back on television. Hunter candidly acknowledges that while his mother has always presented an image of everything being okay, there is something wrong happening behind the scenes.
Williams' physical challenges are further explored when a producer asks if she has seen a neurologist. In a somewhat dismissive response, she questions whether it's to determine if she's 'crazy.' Scenes of her requiring breaks on set, needing to sit down, and receiving help to stand up paint a picture of her ongoing personal ailments.
The trailer takes a turn as a family member discloses that Williams was placed under guardianship after her personal struggles became overwhelming. The emotional impact of this decision is evident when another family member shares that they felt Williams was taken away from them. The toll of her conditions becomes more apparent as Williams acknowledges her dire financial situation, declaring, 'I have no money.' She seizes a throw pillow tightly as tears stream down her face, revealing her vulnerability.
Alcoholism is also addressed in the trailer, with one scene showing a loved one discovering a bottle of vodka among Williams' belongings. Concerned, they ask, 'Did you drink this whole thing today?' Williams snaps back and instructs them to leave the bottle there while she recovers in bed. It's clear that her struggles with addiction have added another layer of complexity to her already challenging journey.
As Williams drives around her hometown of New York City, she admits to being unaware of her surroundings, a possible indication of memory loss. Loved ones express their worry, suggesting that her issues extend beyond alcoholism.
Interwoven with Williams' struggles are scenes of her family members recounting their attempts to help her and their belief that she has worked enough. Despite their support, they express concern about the guardian's role in protecting Williams. In a heart-wrenching moment, Williams confesses she is unaware of the people in her life who love her.
'I love being famous, but family is everything,' Williams states, emphasizing the importance of her loved ones amidst her fame and difficulties.
It was revealed in June 2022 that Williams would officially be ending her talk show. Her last season featured multiple guest hosts due to her testing positive for breakthrough COVID-19 and ongoing health issues related to Graves' disease. This news comes after previous hiatuses from the show in 2018, 2020, and 2019, during which Williams faced complications from her health conditions and focused on her sobriety.
The trailer for 'Where is Wendy Williams?' offers a poignant glimpse into the tumultuous journey faced by the renowned talk show host. Williams' struggles with her health, legal battles, and personal demons are laid bare, showcasing the devastating impact on both her career and personal life. As the documentary promises to unravel the mysteries surrounding Williams' sudden departure from television, viewers are left with a sense of compassion and a greater understanding of the complexities behind the life of a public figure.
'Where is Wendy Williams?' premieres on Lifetime on February 24, with the second part airing the following day.
