Wendy Williams, born Wendy Joan Williams on July 18, 1964, in Asbury Park, New Jersey, is a well-known American media personality and writer. She started her career in radio, quickly gaining popularity as a shock jock in New York City. Her bold and brash style on-air made her a household name. In 2008, she transitioned to television with her own talk show, "The Wendy Williams Show," which ran successfully until 2021.

She has always been open about her personal struggles, including her battle with Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid. Despite these challenges, she continued to work tirelessly, even taking breaks to focus on her health. Her candidness about her health issues and her no-holds-barred approach to celebrity interviews endeared her to millions of fans.

In her personal life, Wendy Williams has had her share of ups and downs. She was married to Kevin Hunter from 1999 until their divorce in 2020. The couple had one son together. She  has also been open about her past struggles with substance abuse and her journey to sobriety.

Throughout her career, Wendy Williams has authored several books, including her autobiography, "Wendy's Got the Heat," and has launched various product lines, such as a fashion line, a jewelry collection, and a wig line. Her influence extended beyond television and radio, as she became a cultural icon known for her bold opinions and fearless personality.

In recognition of her contributions to the media industry, Wendy Williams was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2009. Her impact on popular culture was further acknowledged when the council of Asbury Park renamed the street on which she grew up Wendy Williams Way on her 50th birthday.

Despite her retirement from public life in 2023 due to health issues, including a diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia and aphasia, Wendy Williams remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.