Wendy Williams to Take Hiatus From Talk Show Due to ‘Complications’ With Graves Disease

“Wendy will be under the strict supervision of her physicians, and as part of her care, there will be significant time spent in the hospital,” her family says

Wendy Williams
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Wendy Williams will be taking time off from her daytime talk show due to complications with Graves disease, producers announced on Friday.

“Over the past few days, Wendy has experienced complications regarding her Graves’ Disease that will require treatment,” a statement from the host’s family said. “Wendy will be under the strict supervision of her physicians, and as part of her care, there will be significant time spent in the hospital. Despite her strong desire to return, she is taking a necessary, extended break from her show to focus on her personal and physical well-being.”

No end date for her hiatus was given, but “The Wendy Williams Show” distributor Debmar-Mercury said that the company would “will welcome her back with open arms the moment she is ready.”

Last month, Williams offered an apology to viewers after appearing to flub her words and struggling to read a teleprompter. She attributed the mistakes to medications she had been taking for a recent shoulder injury. Earlier in 2018, Williams had taken a three-week hiatus after being diagnosed with Graves disease, an autoimmune disorder which affects the thyroid.

“Despite her strong desire to return, she is taking a necessary, extended break from her show to focus on her personal and physical well-being,” the Williams family statement continued. “Wendy thanks everyone in advance for their well-wishes and for respecting her and The Hunter Family’s privacy during this time.”

“The Wendy Williams Show” is set to return with original episodes the week of Jan. 28 with a rotating stable of guest hosts.

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