Shawn Zanotti, Wendy Williams publicist,  regrets participating in the Lifetime two-part docuseries, “Where Is Wendy Williams?” PEOPLE reports.

After trending on social media and being accused of enabling Williams' alcoholism and various health issues, Zanotti claims that she would not have signed on to be a part of the documentary if she had been aware that it wasn't going to celebrate Williams’ career.

 "It's horrible they would do something like this to her," Zanotti said. "And for what gain? For what reason?"

"I would never let Wendy put her name and brand on the line like that ever. She's an icon. It's not the story we signed up for and I feel lied to," Zanotti continued. "It's so difficult for me to even watch. Wendy would be mortified."

According to Zanotti, she was told she was being filmed as a member of Williams' team, helping her launch a comeback with a new podcast and a possible return to TV. But it would soon become apparent that Willaims was unable to work.

While she was aware of the rumors of Williams’ struggles, Zanotti said she did not know that  Williams had a drinking problem or cognitive issues “because she had never even met her in person until they started filming.”

"I live in Los Angeles and have only been around Wendy in person a few times. The first time was when we started filming the sizzle reel," she explained. "All those negative things about her in the press may have been rumors—I can't take that as a fact. It wasn't my experience with her."

"Her management team told me she was ready for her comeback and pushing the podcast. They were the ones with her. I was never told she was struggling with alcohol, and I never saw it," she added.

Zanotti also revealed that she has not been in contact with Williams since April 2023, when she was admitted to an undisclosed health facility to address her cognitive issues. Two days before the release of the docuseries,  it was announced that Willaims was diagnosed with progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia (FTD).

Although she is frustrated with how she is portrayed in the doc, she considers working with William to be one of the highlights of her career.

"I just regret ever being a part of the documentary," says Zanotti, "and getting Wendy involved."

"I know you wouldn't think that from watching what you saw and my experience filmed, but she has such a big heart,” she continued. “I've gotten to know her these past couple of years, and I will take it with me forever," she pauses, softening her tone. "I'll cherish it until the day I die."