New York, USA – Former talk show host Wendy Williams was escorted from her New York City assisted living facility by the NYPD on March 10, 2024, following a dramatic incident in which she dropped handwritten notes from her window pleading for help. The notes, which read “Help! Wendy!!”, were reportedly seen by passersby, prompting a welfare check by authorities. Williams, who has been under a court-ordered guardianship since 2022, was taken to a local hospital for evaluation, reigniting concerns about her well-being and the conditions of her care.
The Incident
According to reports from People and The New York Post, Williams, 60, was seen waving from the window of her fifth-floor room at the assisted living facility while speaking on the phone. Witnesses reported seeing her toss multiple notes from the window, one of which was retrieved and shared with the media. The notes, scrawled in bold letters, read: “Help! Wendy!!”
Police were called to the scene around 11:15 a.m. for a welfare check. Williams was later escorted out of the facility by officers and taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Photos captured by The Post showed Williams being helped into an ambulance, looking visibly distressed but silent.
Williams’ Struggles with Guardianship
Williams has been under a court-ordered guardianship since 2022, following claims by her bank that she was a victim of financial exploitation. The guardianship, which places control of her finances and personal decisions in the hands of a court-appointed guardian, has been a source of ongoing frustration for Williams.
In a January interview with The Breakfast Club, Williams described her experience at the facility as akin to being in a “luxury prison.” She vehemently denied being cognitively impaired, stating, “I feel like I’m in prison. I’m not cognitively impaired.”
Williams was diagnosed with dementia and aphasia in 2023, conditions that affect memory, communication, and cognitive function. However, she claims she has not been reevaluated since her initial diagnosis, raising questions about the validity of her guardianship.
Family’s Concerns
Williams’ family has expressed frustration over their inability to communicate with her while she is in the facility. Wanda Finnie, Williams’ sister, told People, “The people who love her cannot see her.” The family has been vocal about their concerns regarding her care and the restrictions imposed by the guardianship.
Williams’ son, Kevin Hunter Jr., has also spoken out about the situation, alleging that the guardianship has isolated her from her loved ones and limited her autonomy.
Public Reaction
The incident has sparked widespread concern among Williams’ fans and the public. Many have taken to social media to express their support for the former talk show host, with hashtags like #FreeWendyWilliams and #JusticeForWendy trending on platforms like Twitter and Instagram.
Critics of the guardianship system have pointed to Williams’ case as an example of its potential for abuse, calling for greater transparency and oversight.
What’s Next for Wendy Williams?
As of now, Williams remains under guardianship, and her legal team is reportedly working to challenge the arrangement. Her family has vowed to continue fighting for her freedom and better care.
The incident has also reignited discussions about the treatment of individuals under guardianship, particularly those with cognitive impairments. Advocates are calling for reforms to ensure that guardianships are used appropriately and that the rights of individuals are protected.
Conclusion
Wendy Williams’ plea for help has shed light on the challenges faced by individuals under guardianship and the need for greater accountability in the system. As her family and legal team work to address her situation, the public remains hopeful that Williams will receive the care and support she deserves.
Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the rights and dignity of vulnerable individuals, even in the face of complex legal and medical challenges.