Wendy Williams’ return to namesake show delayed by ‘serious’ health complications

Syndicated talk show host Wendy Williams will be sidelined for the Season 13 premiere of her namesake program by ongoing medical issues, showrunners confirmed Tuesday.

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“The Wendy Williams Show will start airing originals on Monday, October 18, with an exciting lineup of guest hosts and panels to be announced shortly,” a statement posted to the show’s official Instagram account read.

Specifically, showrunners cited Williams’ “serious complications as a direct result of Graves’ Disease and her thyroid condition” for the delay, adding, “It has been determined that more time is needed before she is able to return to her live hosting duties.”

According to People magazine, the show’s Season 13 premiere was originally slated for Sept. 20 but was postponed until Oct. 4 after Williams, 57, tested positive for a breakthrough case of COVID-19, compounding her existing health struggles.

>> Related: Coronavirus: Wendy Williams tests positive, delays return to talk show circuit

“Wendy is a valued and stalwart member of the Debmar-Mercury family and has been so for 12 years. We want her health to be her top priority. As soon as she’s ready, she will be back in her treasured purple chair. We very much appreciate the respect for Wendy’s privacy, as well as all the good wishes from her fans, station partners and advertisers,” showrunners stated.

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