From her early days spinning records as a radio DJ, Wendy Williams carved out a reputation for saying what others only dared to think. That bold honesty has propelled her to the top: Her syndicated daytime talk show, The Wendy Williams Show, a captivating blend of gossip, entertainment, and advice, has just been renewed for its 13th season. "When I was 10 years old, I had my whole life mapped out," Wendy, 56, shares exclusively with Closer. "And guess what? It's worked out exactly—or even better—than I ever dreamed it would."
Of course, Wendy's journey hasn't been without its unexpected twists and heart-wrenching challenges. As a young woman, she endured the trauma of date rape, too ashamed and frightened to report it to the authorities. More recently, in 2019, she faced the pain of divorce after over two decades of marriage, accusing her husband of repeated infidelity. She also sought treatment for substance abuse during this period. Yet through it all, Wendy emerged stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever.
"I am where I am today because I've been through so much, and most of it, I've had to figure out on my own," Wendy reflects. She's now letting the world see her unfiltered, unapologetic story in two new Lifetime features: Wendy Williams: The Movie, starring actress Ciera Payton as Wendy, and the documentary Wendy Williams… What a Mess.
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Scroll down for Closer's exclusive Q&A with Wendy Williams!
How Did the Lifetime Biopic Come to Life?
It all started when Lifetime approached Wendy with the idea. "I wrote my autobiography back in 2003, and it was just as transparent as this movie is," she explains. "But life has thrown me so many curveballs since then. Still, Lifetime and I are thrilled with how it turned out. It's a rollercoaster ride—there will be laughter, tears, and everything in between."
Did You Offer Guidance to Ciera Payton, the Actress Playing You?
Wendy and Ciera formed a close bond during the filming process. "She'd ask me for little tips on certain scenes," Wendy says. "We really connected, and I think that comes across on screen."
Growing Up in New Jersey: A Creative Spirit
Was Fame Always on Your Radar?
As a child, Wendy wasn't exactly a model student. "I wasn't really into schoolwork," she admits. "But I've always been super creative. I'd lose myself in books and music. Listening to those disc jockeys talk about their glamorous lives and rubbing elbows with celebrities made me think, 'Hey, I can do that too!'"
A Middle-Class Upbringing
What Was Family Life Like?
Wendy grew up in a middle-class household where her parents strived to give her the best, even if it meant stretching their budget. "Thanks to Reaganomics, banks were lending money left and right," she jokes. "We had a housekeeper to help my working mom—it was normal where I lived. And interestingly enough, I was one of only four Black students in my graduating class."
Mom's Lessons on Independence
What Words of Wisdom Did Your Mom Share?
Wendy's mother instilled in her the importance of financial independence. "Always have your own money," she advises. "Never tell your husband or boyfriend about any extra cash you've stashed away. Keep it to yourself until the time is right—or if he's no good, use it as your escape plan. Simple as that."
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Her Parents' Marriage: A Model of Stability
What Was Their Relationship Like?
"My parents never raised their voices at each other," Wendy recalls fondly. "Dad never slept on the couch. They had the perfect marriage. And after my mom passed away last December, I realized how much I've grown to resemble them. Funny how life works like that."
The End of Her Marriage to Kevin Hunter
Was Divorce Inevitable?
While Wendy doesn't regret meeting Kevin Hunter, the father of her son, their relationship ultimately ran its course. "We were married for 21 years and shared so many experiences," she says. "But Kevin is a serial cheater, and even if there hadn't been another woman involved, I would have left him. I simply outgrew him."
Would She Ever Remarry?
Setting New Standards for Love
Despite her past, Wendy remains open to love—but under different terms. "I absolutely want to get married again," she says. "But this time, it'll be on my terms. I have a successful career, and I can survive without a man emotionally, financially, or even physically. But having someone special in my life? That's something I truly desire."
What Does Wendy Look for in a Partner?
Her Ideal Match
Wendy envisions a mature man at least 45 years old who's been married and divorced before and already has kids. "We can't live together," she insists. "He's not moving into my place, and I'm not moving into his. And there will definitely be a prenuptial agreement stating what's mine is mine and what's his is his. Clear boundaries are key."
Facing Her Past: Addressing Date Rape
A Painful Secret Comes to Light
For years, Wendy kept her experience with date rape a secret, questioning what she might have done wrong. "I was in my early 20s, and he was a singer with a number-one hit on the R&B charts," she recalls. "The biggest lesson I've learned is to always stay aware of your surroundings and speak up when something feels off. Back then, I was too scared to say anything, worried no one would believe me. Thankfully, times have changed, and now our voices are heard."
Living with Graves' Disease
Managing Health Challenges
Wendy has managed Graves' disease for years, describing it as more of a visual issue than a physical one. "It causes pressure behind your eyes, which can make me look a bit intense sometimes," she explains. "But overall, I feel great and am grateful for the health I do have."
Being a Mom to Kevin Jr.
A Special Bond
Now 20, Kevin Jr. brings immense joy to Wendy's life. "What I love most about being his mom is how much we have in common," she says. "We can look at each other and instantly know whether it's a happy, sad, or just-hug moment. Even now, he'll send me a kissy face emoji. That's my boy."
