Vanessa Williams Remembers Her Mother Helen Following Her Passing
Vanessa Williams is remembering her mother, Helen, who passed away at 85. The actress shared the news on Instagram on January 2. "On December 28th, the world lost a powerhouse, dynamo, and force of nature packed into a 5ft frame," she wrote. Helen, also affectionately known as Gaga, died just 20 days after her birthday, surrounded by family and friends in London, US Weekly reported.
"It’s impossible to describe all she meant to everyone because each person saw a different facet of her," Vanessa continued. "Loyal friend to many, icy stares to a chosen few. We will miss it all." Helen's death was due to complications related to acute liver failure, as noted by Vanessa.
Helen attended her daughter's performance of "The Devil Wears Prada" musical shortly before she passed. Vanessa portrays the iconic character, Miranda Priestly, in this London stage adaptation. Helen celebrated her 85th birthday alongside 150 loved ones, but sadly, her health declined significantly during this visit.
In a change of plans, it was announced that Vanessa would step back from certain performances due to her sudden loss. "Due to a sudden loss in her family, Vanessa Williams will not be appearing from Wednesday, January 8, to Wednesday, January 15," the show posted on social media. Debbie Kurup will take on the role of Miranda Priestly during this time, with Vanessa returning on January 16.
Vanessa shared a strong bond with Helen, co-authoring the memoir "You Have No Idea: A Famous Daughter, Her No-Nonsense Mother, and How They Survived Pageants, Hollywood, Love, Loss (and Each Other)" in 2012. Vanessa spoke about parental support for her career in the arts. She noted, "Support is very important... The preparation is what gave me the skills that gave me longevity in this career."
Helen proudly recalled their experiences, especially attending Vanessa’s Broadway debut in 1994. This moment held a special place in her heart, as it was a long-held dream of Vanessa's.
Earlier, SSP wrote that Lucy Hale celebrated three years of sobriety.