WASHINGTON — Wendy Williams has been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), according to an announcement Thursday from her care team. It's the same form of dementia that acclaimed actor Bruce Willis has.
The former talk show host's team said it was sharing the update "to correct inaccurate and hurtful rumors about her health," a press release explained.
The disclosure comes just days before the four-part documentary "Where is Wendy Williams?" debuts on Lifetime.
"Over the past few years, questions have been raised at times about Wendy's ability to process information and many have speculated about Wendy's condition, particularly when she began to lose words, act erratically at times, and have difficulty understanding financial transactions," the statement said. "In 2023, after undergoing a battery of medical tests, Wendy was officially diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD)."
Family members told PEOPLE this week that Williams is in a facility to treat cognitive issues but was doing "really great." However, Williams' sister Wanda told PEOPLE that those "who love her cannot see her." The family said a court-appointed legal guardian was the only person with unfettered access to Williams.
"The decision to share this news was difficult and made after careful consideration, not only to advocate for understanding and compassion for Wendy, but to raise awareness about aphasia and frontotemporal dementia and support the thousands of others facing similar circumstances," the press release from Williams' care team stated. "Unfortunately, many individuals diagnosed with aphasia and frontotemporal dementia face stigma and misunderstanding, particularly when they begin to exhibit behavioral changes but have not yet received a diagnosis."
What is frontotemporal dementia?
According to the Mayo Clinic website, frontotemporal dementia "is an umbrella term for a group of brain disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain."
While dementia mostly impacts people over the age of 65, frontotemporal dementia tends to start at a younger age with most cases diagnosed in people between 45-65 years old, according to the U.K. National Health System.
Williams hosted "The Wendy Williams Show" for 12 seasons, but stepped down from hosting because of health issues. She previously shared her struggles with Graves' Disease and lymphedema. The show aired its final episode in 2022 after guest hosts filled in for Williams.
How to watch 'Where is Wendy Williams?' documentary
The documentary premieres with parts 1 and 2 on Saturday, Feb. 24, followed by parts 3 and 4 on Sunday, Feb. 25 at 8 p.m. Eastern on Lifetime.
According to Lifetime, the first two episodes will be available to stream the day after it premieres and won't require a cable provider subscription through March 5.
