spotlight. One fan shared a TikTok video expressing their belief that the documentary was intentionally trying to embarrass her. Another fan asked why people were watching her when she was not doing well.
However, executive producer Mark Ford explained that he still believed it was necessary to air the documentary.
“We know it may be hard for some of her fans to watch. But we believe this documentary captures the truth of Wendy’s life over the year-and-a-half we filmed it,” Ford said. “On a personal level, we all care very deeply for Wendy. We are happy she is in a better place now… and we hope the documentary played a role in helping her get to that safer place,” Ford continued.
Last week, her care team released a statement on Thursday to address rumors about her health and provide more information about her being diagnosed with aphasia and dementia.
“In 2023, after undergoing a battery of medical tests, Wendy was officially diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD),” Wendy’s care team shared in a press release. “Aphasia, a condition affecting language and communication abilities, and frontotemporal dementia, a progressive disorder impacting behavior and cognitive functions, have already presented significant hurdles in Wendy’s life,” the statement continued.
According to her son, Kevin Hunter Jr., the heavy alcohol consumption is what led to her diagnosis.
“[Doctors] basically said that because she was drinking so much, it was starting to affect her headspace and her brain,” Kevin, 23, explained during the Sunday, February 25, episode of the two-part series. “So, I think they said it was alcohol-induced dementia.”
Healthline defines alcohol-related dementia as a “type of cognitive impairment that occurs as a result of heavy alcohol consumption over a long period.” Over time, alcohol use can cause brain damage that affects a person’s ability to do daily tasks, such as cooking and managing their finances, the website notes.
Experts suggest that alcohol-induced dementia and FTD can be interconnected. Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to brain damage, particularly affecting the frontal lobe, which is also associated with FTD. “FTD can be triggered by genetics but also by alcohol abuse, especially alcohol abuse later in life. And while alcohol-related dementia can be reversed if caught early, permanent brain damage can occur if a person does not abstain,” PEOPLE notes.
As for Williams, she has not released any statements about the documentary since it premiered. However, on Friday her care team shared a statement on her behalf.
“I want to say I have immense gratitude for the love and kind words I have received after sharing my diagnosis of Aphasia and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). Let me say, wow! Your response has been overwhelming,” the statement read in part. “I continue to need personal space and peace to thrive. Please just know that your positivity and encouragement are deeply appreciated.”
We hope that Wendy continues to receive the best possible treatment.