Williams diagnosed with dementia
Former talk show host Wendy Williams has been diagnosed with the same form of dementia that actor Bruce Willis has, a statement released Thursday on behalf of her caretakers said.
The statement said the 59-year-old’s diagnoses of primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia “have already presented significant hurdles in Wendy’s life” and have behavioral and cognitive impacts.
“Wendy is still able to do many things for herself. Most importantly, she maintains her trademark sense of humor and is receiving the care she requires to make sure she is protected and that her needs are addressed. She is appreciative of the many kind thoughts and good wishes being sent her way,” said the statement attributed to her care team.
The announcement came a day after a cover story in People magazine quoted Williams’ family about the nature of her struggles, ahead of a Lifetime documentary set to air Saturday.
“The people who love her cannot see her,” Williams’ sister Wanda is quoted as saying. “I think the big (question) is: How the hell did we get here?”
Parton congratulates Beyoncé:
Beyoncé’s transition into country music is being applauded by one of the genre’s living legends.
“I’m a big fan of Beyoncé and very excited that she’s done a country album. So congratulations on your Billboard Hot Country number one single. Can’t wait to hear the full album!” Dolly Parton posted Thursday on Instagram.
Her post came after Beyoncé’s song “Texas Hold ’Em” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
The achievement was a historic milestone, as it made her the first Black woman to ever sit atop the Hot Country Songs chart.
Another track from the album, “16 Carriages,” came in at No. 9 on the list. The full album is set to be released March 29.
Beyoncé’s venture into country music has also received support from country singer Darius Rucker, who said Thursday that he thought “Texas Hold ’Em” was a “great song,” and that he hoped the album would finally bring her an album of the year award at next year’s Grammys.
Kahan, Rodrigo to release special record:
Olivia Rodrigo and Noah Kahan are set to release a special edition split single featuring Rodrigo’s cover of Kahan’s “Stick Season,” and Kahan’s cover of Rodrigo’s “Lacy.” Both covers were recorded during the artists’ respective appearances on BBC Radio 1’s Live Lounge late last year.
The seven-inch colored vinyl will be sold at participating independent record stores as part of Record Store Day on April 20.
Kahan’s 2021 album, “I Was/i Am,” will also be released on blue vinyl. Additionally, special edition titles from the Weeknd, Paramore, Pearl Jam, Talking Heads, David Bowie and the Beatles are set to go on sale.
Actor Jenny O’hara is 82. Actor Barry Bostwick is 79. Actor Edward James Olmos is 77. Musician George Thorogood is 74. Actor Debra Jo Rupp is 73. TV journalist Paula Zahn is 68. Singer Sammy Kershaw is
66. Actor Billy Zane is 58. Actor Daniel Kaluuya is
35. Actor O’shea Jackson Jr. is 33.