In a new lawsuit, Wendy Williams' guardian alleges the host was taken advantage of and financially exploited in the production of the Lifetime docuseries about her life.
- Sep 18, 2024
AceShowbiz - Wendy Williams' guardian, Sabrina Morrissey, has filed a lawsuit against A&E Television Networks, Lifetime Entertainment Services, EOne Productions, Creature Films, executive producer Mark Ford, and social media personality Will Selby. The complaint alleges that the defendants exploited Williams for their own financial gain while she was incapacitated and suffering from dementia.
The lawsuit claims that Williams made only $82,000 from the docuseries while the defendants likely made millions. As part of the suit, Morrissey seeks to recover the damages caused by the defendants and prevent further airing, sales, or release of the documentary.
According to the complaint, the defendants took advantage of Williams' vulnerability and filmed her without her consent or the consent of her guardian. They allegedly did this despite knowing about her severe cognitive and physical impairments.
The suit states that Morrissey was not involved in the production or contract and was not shown a copy of the contract until months after it was purportedly executed. Morrissey alleges that the defendants continued to reach out to Williams after filming wrapped, but she refused to allow further exploitation.
The complaint also alleges that the defendants falsely insisted to the press that Williams had "executive produced" the documentary. Morrissey claims that Williams had never seen the trailer or series before it aired and never endorsed them.
Morrissey argues that the defendants have been unjustly enriched by exploiting Williams' illness. She believes the profits from the doc should go to Williams, who will need significant funding for medical care and supervision for the rest of her life.
Attorneys for Williams' guardian stated, "Their behavior truly shocks the conscience, and they should not be permitted to profit from her suffering. We are proud to represent her guardian in holding them accountable."
The documentary in question, "Where Is Wendy Williams?," aired in February 2023. It explored Williams' life under her guardianship and captured her mental health decline, memory issues, and inability to communicate effectively.
