On March 10, 2025, ex-talking show host Wendy Williams was being escorted from her New York City assisted living center to a hospital after a wellness check by the New York Police Department (NYPD). The check-in came after Williams had allegedly let a note fall from her fifth-floor window that read, “Help! Wendy!!,” raising concerns about her health.
Williams, who is 60, has been living at the assisted living center under a court-appointed guardianship that was set up in 2022. This legal setup was put in place as a result of health and financial concerns about her, with guardian Sabrina Morrissey making decisions regarding the two areas. Morrissey once said that Williams is “cognitively impaired, permanently disabled, and legally incapacitated.” But Williams has made it public that she is not cognitively impaired and that she wants to gain back her independence.
When the note was received, authorities performed a wellness check on the facility. Williams was reported to be calm throughout the encounter and was able to walk into the ambulance unaided. She was taken to Mount Sinai West hospital for assessment.
Williams has complained in the past few months about her living situation and being limited by her guardianship. She has compared her case to being in prison, citing limitations on her freedom and restricted access to her belongings. Williams has complained about not having transparency as to how she is being medicated and the medication she is administered.
After being hospitalized, Williams was subjected to a psychiatric examination, which she reportedly passed “with flying colors.” Her caregiver, Ginalia Monterrosa, who was with her at The hospital corroborated this statement by saying that Williams is not incapacitated. This new turn of events has strengthened Williams’ bid to end the guardianship and take back control of her personal and financial lives.
The incident has also raised awareness of claims of potential elder abuse in the guardianship setup. The reports indicate that Adult Protective Services has opened an investigation of allegations that Williams was sent to see her father in Florida without access to her funds, sparking concerns over how she was managed under the guardianship.
Williams’ case highlights the complexities and controversies surrounding conservatorships, particularly when the individual under such arrangements contests their necessity. As Williams continues her legal battle to end guardianship, her situation underscores the importance of balancing protection with personal autonomy in cases involving cognitive and health-related concerns.
At this point, there is currently no active NYPD investigation into the incident, and Williams’ current condition and impending legal proceedings continue to be public affairs of concern and interest.
