Wendy Williams covers the May 2011 issue of Essence Magazine, the magazine’s first-ever “Girlfriends Issue,” dedicated to female friendships.

I’m also proud to not that the duel cover as well as Wendy’s photo spread for the article, was shot by Atlanta’s own Derek Blanks!

Williams talks to ESSENCE about friendship, family and the driving force behind the talk show queen’s appeal.

I know I make some people cringe.

But I also know my willingness to expose myself, warts and all, is part of the reason people are drawn to me. With me, what you see is what you get…

On TV (and as well as in her radio past), Wendy is known for saying things no one else will (remember when Wendy kicked Tameka Foster (Glover Raymond) out of her studio?).? She even recently went as far as to post photos of her bunion ridden feet online!!

But when the spotlight goes off Wendy is a whole ‘nother person! She explains it all in the issue, which hits stands April 13th.

And in case you were wondering about Wendy’s stint with Dancing with the stars, click HERE to watch her graceful exit during the eliminations last night.

In case you missed it:

PHOTO: Wendy Williams in her “younger” years…
Wendy Williams shows off her 40-something Bikini Body…
Bunion Battle: Wendy Williams v. Oprah Winfrey