Wendy Williams’ fight for independence has taken a significant step forward as the former talk show host scored a victory in court against her court-appointed guardianship.
On March 17, 2025, Williams was seen leaving a New York courthouse smiling alongside her niece and attorney, marking a hopeful moment in her ongoing legal battle.
After months of restrictions in a luxury assisted-living facility, Williams has now been granted permission to move to a less restrictive section. When asked about the court’s ruling, she confirmed, “It did,” signaling progress toward regaining her autonomy.
While her legal team continues negotiating a settlement, upcoming cognitive tests will play a crucial role in determining her ability to live independently.
A Public Cry for Help
Williams has been outspoken in her efforts to end the guardianship, which she claims has severely limited her freedoms. Just last week, she made headlines by pressing a handwritten note against the window of her luxury senior living facility in Hudson Yards that read, “Help! Wendy!”
The plea prompted police and medical personnel to intervene, ultimately resulting in her hospitalization for evaluation.
Her case has drawn comparisons to other high-profile conservatorships, including that of Britney Spears. Prominent attorney Mathew Rosengart, known for his role in ending Spears’ conservatorship, commented that such legal arrangements should be used only as a “last resort” due to their impact on fundamental rights and civil liberties.
The Origins of Wendy Williams’ Guardianship
Williams, who has battled various health issues, including Graves’ disease and lymphedema, began exhibiting erratic behavior in 2021.
As guest hosts filled in for her during her final television season, her bank, Wells Fargo, raised concerns about possible financial exploitation, undue influence, or dementia. This led to a guardianship proceeding initiated in February 2022.
New York attorney Sabrina Morrissey was appointed as Williams’ legal guardian. Court records indicate that Williams was diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), conditions affecting cognitive and communication abilities.
Her legal team, however, has questioned the necessity of such restrictive measures, with Williams arguing that she has been unjustly confined and isolated from her loved ones.
A&E Documentary Sparks Controversy
The debate over Williams’ guardianship intensified with the release of Where Is Wendy Williams?, a documentary filmed over three years that offered an unfiltered look at her struggles with health and alcohol. In one scene, she openly admits to drinking vodka and exhibits erratic behavior.
Morrissey attempted to block the documentary’s release, arguing that Williams lacked the capacity to consent to filming and was exploited by A&E. However, a judge denied the motion, and the documentary aired as planned.
Williams and Her Family Speak Out
Williams has repeatedly stated that she feels like a prisoner, alleging that she is rarely allowed to leave her assisted-living facility and is isolated from friends and family.
She recently told The View co-host Sunny Hostin that she is confined to a memory-care unit with residents decades older than her and spends most of her time in her bedroom.
Her niece, Alex Finnie, has also been vocal about the situation. After taking Williams to dinner following a recent medical evaluation, Finnie claimed that facility staff called the police on her for escorting her aunt outside. This has further fueled concerns over the level of control Williams’ guardian has over her daily life.
What’s Next in the Legal Battle?
Following her recent hospitalization, Williams said she passed a mental evaluation “with flying colors.” The court has now ordered a more extensive psychological assessment, with results expected by June.
Morrissey has filed a request for a supplemental medical evaluation to determine Williams’ capacity to manage her affairs.
Legal experts suggest that Williams may have multiple avenues to challenge her guardianship, including seeking its removal, requesting a less restrictive arrangement, or terminating it altogether.
Hostin, who spoke with Williams on The View, suggested that a transition to a more independent lifestyle with support, such as a sober coach, could be a viable alternative.
For now, Williams remains determined to fight for her independence. While the road ahead is uncertain, her latest court victory represents a crucial step in her bid for freedom.
