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Wendy Williams reveals her 61st birthday wish—and her plea is heartbreaking

That public statement was one of many signals that Wendy is ready to fight back


Senior Writer
JULY 18, 2025 7:03 PM EDT

Wendy Williams just turned 61 and is crystal clear about what she wants most this year. The former daytime queen, known for her no-filter candor and sharp wit, spent part of her birthday week celebrating in New York City. But the real headline isn't where she dined or who she was with, it's what she said.

Walking into Delmonico's with two of her attorneys and her longtime friend and former producer, Suzanne Bass, Williams was asked by TMZ what she wished for on her birthday. Without missing a beat, she replied: "To get out of guardianship."

Wendy Williams are Ray J are seen walking in soho on June 28, 2021 in New York City.  (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)© GC Images
Wendy Williams are Ray J are seen walking in soho on June 28, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)

The Fight for Her Freedom

Wendy has been under legal guardianship since May 2022, a court-appointed arrangement that has controlled many aspects of her personal and financial life. While the legal specifics remain confidential, the star has been outspoken in her belief that she doesn't need to be under anyone's control.

She currently resides in a wellness facility in New York City, but over the last several months, she's made it clear she wants her independence back.

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Wendy Williams go to dinner at Fresco by Scotto on February 21, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Gotham/GC Images)

In a rare interview earlier this year, Wendy described her situation as "what some people would call a luxury prison," adding that she has extremely limited access to the outside world. But perhaps most heartbreakingly, she declared: "I am not cognitively impaired."

That public statement was one of many signals that Wendy is ready to fight back, take control, and reclaim her life.

A New Kind of Birthday Wish

The Wendy we've watched for decades, the one who fearlessly took on pop culture from her purple throne, is still there, just temporarily muted by a legal situation she believes is unnecessary. Her latest birthday marks not just another year, but a declaration of intent.

Back in April, fans rallied in New York in support of Wendy's fight to exit guardianship. Holding signs and chanting her name, they made it clear that the public hasn't forgotten her. And more importantly, they're listening.

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Wendy Williams attends Daniel's Leather Fashion Show featuring Dame Dash at Harbor New York City on February 15, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Wendy, in turn, expressed deep gratitude. "It was nice to see so much support," she said. But she also admitted something that speaks volumes about her emotional state: "At this point in my life, I can't trust a lot of people."

What Comes Next for Wendy?

This birthday feels like a turning point. Wendy's legal team is reportedly working on her behalf to challenge the guardianship arrangement, and she appears increasingly optimistic that change is possible.

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Wendy Williams is seen out on July 13, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images)

For now, Wendy is keeping her circle small, her words precise, and her mission loud and clear. She's walking toward 61 as a woman on a mission.

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