From West End Ice Queen to Wisteria Lane: Vanessa Williams Opens Up
Vanessa Williams, the acclaimed actress currently commanding the London stage, has revealed she would consider a return to the iconic television series Desperate Housewives under the right circumstances. The star, who is earning rave reviews for her portrayal of the formidable Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada musical at the Dominion Theatre, shared this news during an exclusive interview before switching on the Oxford Street Christmas lights.
Williams, 62, joked that her powerful stage persona means "many people are scared to approach me," a situation she finds somewhat beneficial as it filters out unwanted attention. However, she is quick to dismiss the outdated stereotype of ruthless women in power, pointing to the numerous female CEOs, governors, and presidents now leading across the globe.
A Festive Spirit and a Demanding Schedule
Despite playing an ice queen on stage, Williams is a self-professed lover of the festive season. Having released two Christmas albums and starred in the film A Diva's Christmas Carol, she was thrilled to be in London for the second year running to spread holiday cheer. Her successful run in The Devil Wears Prada has been extended until 18 April 2026, requiring her to perform eight shows a week.
With her family, including her four children and one grandson, based in the US, their Christmas reunion is uncertain. Williams mentioned that if they cannot fly to London in December, they will plan a holiday at the beginning of the new year.
Desperate Housewives Memories and a Potential Reboot
The conversation turned to the hit ABC drama, Desperate Housewives, which is reportedly set for a reboot executive produced by Kerry Washington. Williams played the sophisticated and zany Renee Perry in the show's later seasons. "I do have fond memories of the show," she said, praising creator Marc Cherry for writing a "terrific role" for her.
While she has not received any official approach about returning, Williams confirmed her participation would depend on the creative team behind the revival. She remains close friends with her former co-star, Teri Hatcher, whom she last saw for her birthday.
A Powerful New Documentary Project
Beyond acting, Williams is channeling her energy into a deeply personal project: a documentary about the scandal that erupted in 1984 when she was forced to resign as the first Black Miss America after unauthorised nude photographs were published. She described the process as both "fascinating and exciting, but also exhausting," as she aims to tell her side of the story after 42 years.
Williams reflected on how differently society treats women today compared to four decades ago, stating the documentary will illustrate that shift. Now a grandmother, she also offers sage advice to her two daughters who are pursuing singing careers, encouraging them to "keep doing what makes you excited" and to never fear new opportunities.
With a legendary career spanning beauty pageants, music, film, and theatre, Vanessa Williams continues to demonstrate a remarkable ability to transform challenges into triumphs, truly living by the title of her Grammy-nominated hit, Save the Best for Last.
