UPDATE: Wendy Williams is celebrating her birthday in New York City, but the beloved chat show host is still grappling with her ongoing guardianship battle. After spending her previous birthday alone in a Connecticut facility, Williams expressed relief at being surrounded by friends and family this year during a series of festive gatherings.
The iconic television personality marked her special day at notable restaurants including Delmonico’s and Fresco by Scotto, the latter run by her friend and fellow TV star Rosanna Scotto. Williams also shared an intimate dinner on Tuesday night at Le Marais with her niece, Alex Finnie, her niece’s boyfriend, Eric Houston, and friends including Alvina Alston, Mel Maxi, and Tobi Rubinstein.
Reflecting on last year’s solitary birthday, Williams told Page Six, “For my last birthday, I was in Connecticut with nothing but grass and trees. Nobody came to visit me in Connecticut.” She described this year’s celebrations as “beautiful” but warned fans not to forget her current struggles. Williams is still confined under a guardianship she describes as “a luxury prison,” living at the Coterie in Hudson Yards.
When asked about her birthday wish for the coming year, she stated, “It’s obvious: to get out of my guardianship, and go back to work in the most magnificent way.” Williams revealed she has been having “some very confident conversations” with her legal team, including power attorney Joe Tacopino, about her situation.
While she has enjoyed dining at some of New York City’s finest eateries, Williams admitted that she predominantly eats in her bedroom, stating, “I like privacy, but this is too goddam private!” Her living situation limits her communication as she reportedly does not have a cell phone and can only use a landline that cannot receive incoming calls.
Williams’ ongoing battle for autonomy follows a series of health challenges, including a brief alcohol relapse, which she candidly discussed on the View. Fans are encouraged to support her journey as she pushes for a return to independence and a revival of her celebrated career.
As her birthday celebrations continue, Williams reminds everyone that while the joy of the occasion is palpable, the fight for her freedom is far from over. Keep an eye on this developing story as the iconic star seeks to reclaim her life and career.
