Sherri Shepherd To Be Named Permanent Guest Host For 'The Wendy Williams Show'

It seems "The Wendy Williams Show" is looking to move on from Wendy Williams after months of being away from her syndicated talk show due to intense health battles.

Per reports, the daytime talk show has a new replacement, and a possible name change is in the works.

According to TMZ, Sherri Shepherd will be named the new permanent guest host by September. As you might know, Shepherd has been a consistent guest host on the daytime show, filling in for Wendy whenever she is away.

The comedian is currently one of the guest hosts for the current season 14, and it seems the network is rooting for her to become a permanent fixture. Per the publications, sources say the show's producers want Shepherd to take complete reigns of "The Wendy Williams Show" by the beginning of September.

The insider claims the contract hasn't been fully signed, and it's not a closed deal yet. However, it will inevitably happen soon.

While Shepherd seemingly has her foot through the door, her permanence on the talk show solely depends on Wendy's health status. As a result, the show's creators plan to vigilantly monitor Wendy's health between now and September.

If Wendy's condition improves, she'll be allowed to return and take her place. However, if that doesn't happen, Shepherd will be in charge.

If the latter occurs, the network producing the show will give the green light for the name to be changed from "The Wendy Williams Show" for its 15th season, which kicks off in September. Fox Station Group is reportedly on board, and only time will tell if it happens.

The recent update comes after a press release confirmed to heartbroken fans that Wendy won't be showing up at least on the show at least until the beginning of March. A statement from the show's team read:

The Wendy Williams Show’ continues to fill Wendy’s seat with exciting guest hosts for all-new episodes during the month of February. Beginning Monday, January 31, through Friday, February 4, comedian Michael Rapaport takes the reins.

After Rapaport, hip-hop icons Fat Joe and Remy Ma take the baton and carry the show until Monday, February 14, after which Bevy Smith and entertainment reporter Terrence J will take over, making their first appearance as guest hosts.

February 21 to 25 will see Shepherd as guest host, and then for the rest of the month until March 4, Rapaport will return, closing out the show. It's unsure if there are ongoing plans to fill in the slots after March 4.

As The Blast previously reported, Wendy isn't doing too good and struggling with her health. The television personality made her last appearance on the show in October 2021 before bowing out due to serious complications from Graves Disease and a thyroid condition.

Wendy has been on the mend ever since, but her condition doesn't seem to be improving. Per sources, the 57-year-old is spiraling down, and her vibrant energy is nowhere to be found.

She is reportedly exhibiting new symptoms that scare everyone around her. "The spark is gone. That Wendy, who for ten years had that spark in her eyes, that cheeky grin and that little wink is not the same now," the source claimed.

The insider revealed that Wendy struggled to get dressed and received help to do basic things like getting out of bed and eating. "Sometimes she goes out in a robe and without shoes on — the old Wendy would never have allowed herself to be seen out like that."

It's reportedly so bad that Wendy is allegedly facing difficulty remembering those who worked closely with her. As for fans who her eager to get an update from the show host herself via video, sources say that won't be happening at all.

"She really can't do a video. She's been having a hard time holding a conversation," the insider stated. Wendy has been mostly away from the public eye since taking a hiatus from her show in October.

However, in November, she came out of resting to let fans know she was getting better, but it was taking a bit longer than usual.