For over 12 seasons of the American syndicated Wendy Williams talk show, Wendy Williams’ glam team choose a dress to fit her size and figure, shoes worth of a shoe cam, a wig to cover her thinning yet gorgeous hair, and positivity to match the roughness of the entertainment business. Daily, the double doors opened as one fancy voice announced “Live, from New York city, here is Wendy”. The fierce host, Wendy run excitedly to the stage amidst hysterical cheers and screams. With the biggest smile on her face, she pulled out the phrase from her belly “how you doing?” The crowd would then sit down to be fed from the pot of celebrity gossip. Everybody got a huge serving since, as always, celebrities were up to something. To wash it all down, the host poured some juicy commentary into the cups of the ever-curious studio audience.

The set up, the backup team, and the purple chair stated that Wendy Williams had arrived! She wasn’t apologizing for the burps and snorts that crept in while she talked. After all, she had done this many times as a radio DJ. She had interviewed guests that other media personalities could not. She was the first one to know the latest gossip and vibe in town. This queen had become loved and hated in equal measures.

The Other Side of Fame

Wendy has been honest throughout her media career. She told everyone that she has battled a legion of difficulties from childhood, some of which left her broke and broken by the end of the 12^th season. From the substance use and addiction, the criticism from parents over her weight and personality, rape, miscarriages, two divorces, a grave’s disease, to lymphedema.

Between 2021 and 2022, decisions against decisions were made regarding the fate of the Wendy William’s’ beloved show, and the powers that be announced that queen of radio and daytime television would not return for the 14^th season. The nosy eyes and ears of the public would then be treated to a few disturbing videos and photos of a confused and incoherent queen from the paparazzi. All was not well-this girl was a mere shadow of her former self. Then came the 2024 Lifetime documentary to answer all questions. More questions have been left unanswered.

Nonetheless, we can still learn a few things by watching the four-part series, Where Is Wendy Williams?

1. There are hundreds of layers to every story. Therefore, we shall “bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3 :13).
2. They say that the show must go on, but I can excuse myself when necessary. I will then proceed to wait on the Lord because “those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint”. (Isaiah 40:31)
3. The same sons and daughters of women welcoming you joyfully while the spotlight is on you will be the same ones typing “karma” during your downfall. So, I will put my trust in God because “cursed is the man who trusts in man” (Jeremiah 17:5-8.
4. The body can only take so much pain; at some point, cracks and bruises will manifest. However, I know that “the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Romans 8:18).
5. No one is exempt from the human experience; mental health issues, dementia, and other issues will show up if they feel like it. However, I am also aware that “a bruised reed He will not break, and smoking flax He will not quench; He will bring forth justice for truth” (Isaiah 42:3).