Sherri Shepherd is close to inking a deal to become the regular fill-in host for The Wendy Williams Show.
Sources with direct knowledge of the show’s production told TMZ on Tuesday that Shepherd will soon be named “permanent guest host” of the syndicated daytime talk show as Williams continues her extended medical leave. The sources added that Shepherd’s “deal is almost locked.”
Show producers plan to monitor Williams between now and September, but if she isn’t ready to resume full-time work in the fall, Shepherd would likely become the show’s permanent host.
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Meanwhile, an individual close to Williams told TheWrap, the daytime diva is not being consulted about what’s happening at the show at all.
“She’s currently not involved with the show in any way,” the individual said. “Next season is up in the air depending on her health.”
As previously reported, a revolving door of guest hosts, including Shepherd have filled in for Williams since the Oct. 18 premiere date for the current season of The Wendy Williams Show. Shepherd, who previously co-hosted The View, quickly emerged as a fan favorite and has returned to fill Williams’ purple chair multiple times.
The original premiere date for this season was pushed back several times due to Williams contracting a breakthrough case of COVID-19, and complications from her previous diagnosis of Graves’ disease.
Currently rappers Fat Joe and Remy Ma are hosting together until Feb. 11; Bevy Smith and Terrence J will host from Feb. 14-18; and Sherri Shepherd will fill in from Feb. 21-25. Actor and comedian Michael Rapaport will close out the month and host from Feb. 28 to March 4.
