January 4th 2025.
Vanessa Williams recently announced that she will be taking a step back from her role in the West End production of The Devil Wears Prada. This decision comes after the devastating loss of her beloved mother, Helen Williams, who passed away at the age of 85.
The Ugly Betty star shared the sad news with her followers on Instagram, along with a heartfelt tribute to her mother. In her post, she described her mother as a "powerhouse, dynamo and force of nature packed into a 5ft frame." It's clear that Helen was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many.
Vanessa also shared a photo of her mother and a few slides detailing her life and achievements. She was born on December 8, 1939, in Buffalo, New York. Vanessa fondly remembered her mother's icy stares for a chosen few, while also acknowledging her as a loyal friend to many.
The caption also highlighted Helen's four-decade-long career as a vocal music educator and her role as a proud mother. She was a passionate advocate for the arts, education, women's rights, racial equality, and social justice. In honor of her mother's legacy, Vanessa requested that, instead of flowers, people donate to The Helen Tinch Williams Vocal Performance Fund. She also mentioned that intimate private memorial services will be held later this month.
According to an obituary obtained by People, Helen passed away from complications of acute liver failure. Vanessa shared that her mother had recently traveled to London to attend the opening night of The Devil Wears Prada and celebrate her 85th birthday with 150 of her family and friends. Unfortunately, her health declined during her visit, leading to her passing.
As a result, Vanessa will be temporarily absent from the West End production from January 8 to 15. Her role as Miranda Priestley will be played by Debbie Kurup until her return on January 16. The news of her mother's passing has brought an outpouring of love and support from friends and fans.
Fellow celebrities shared their condolences, with actress Taryn Smith commenting, "Sending you love and wishing you comfort during this time." Drag Race star Michele Visage wrote, "Love you my friend," and Desperate Housewives co-star Teri Hatcher expressed her sympathy, saying, "Oh Vanessa, I'm so sorry for your loss. Sending love and strength to you and your family."
One of Vanessa's followers, @mrjerryoc, also shared a heartfelt message, "Vanessa, what a beautiful, BEAUTIFUL WOMAN. Always a RAY OF SUNSHINE. Our whole family is here for you and the family. Helen was such a beauty! We are so blessed to have known her. Love to everyone."
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