'I'm living proof': Wendy Williams releases PSA for drug addictions, substance abuse

NEW YORK — Wendy Williams has released a public service announcement on behalf of her family's organization.

People reported that the daytime TV talk show host, who has said she struggled with cocaine abuse in the past, appeared in the national PSA to let others know where they can get help for addiction.

>> Read more trending news

“Hi, I’m Wendy Williams Hunter,” she says at the start of the announcement. “My organization, The Hunter Foundation, recently launched a nationwide hotline to offer treatment resources for you if you are a drug addict or substance abuser. 1-888-5HUNTER.”

“The calls are being answered by specially trained, certified recovery coaches,” she said. “They’re very smart. They conduct screenings to determine your needs. The substance abuse will be taken care of. We will provide you with referrals for long- or short-term treatment at facilities all around the world: detox, rehab, sober living and outpatient centers everywhere, nationwide.

“If you’re an addict or a substance abuser, don’t be ashamed -- help is here for you or a family member or a loved one. Call. Don’t be ashamed, there is hope. I’m living proof.”

The ad ends with Williams directing viewers to The Hunter Foundation website.

Williams said on March 19 that she had been living in a sober living facility even as she filmed her talk show.

“You know me for being a very open and truthful person and I’ve got more to the story for you,” the host, 54, said. “You know (my husband) Kevin (Hunter and I) have The Hunter Foundation for the good of the people. We recently launched our 888-5 HUNTER number for those of you caught up in the struggle of addiction,” she said. “Well, for some time now, and even today and beyond, I have been living in a sober house.”

Williams said she goes to “several meetings” in the tri-state area and is driven around by her 24-hour sober coach.

Although she has not said what substance she has entered herself into treatment for, tabloid reports claim Williams has been abusing alcohol as her husband and manager, Kevin Hunter, allegedly has an affair. His mistress reportedly welcomed a baby girl in March, but Hunter has not commented on the reports and it has not been verified that Hunter is the father of the child.

Williams has maintained that her marriage is fine.

"Marriages have ebbs and flows, marriage isn't easy. And don't ask me about mine until you see this gone," she said, pointing to her wedding ring on her March 4 show. "And it ain't going anywhere, not in this lifetime."

Cox Media Group