Esther Williams at Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' Tribute to Olivia de Havilland, Beverly Hills, California - 15.06.06

The 87-year-old swimming champion-turned-Hollywood pin-up is suffering from a retina condition known as macular degeneration, according to U.S. reports, and friends insist her sight problems have turned her into a virtual recluse.

One source tells America's Globe, "It's a terribly sad time for Esther. She's staying away from all her old buddies because she doesn't want to worry anyone."

And the Hollywood legend's maid, Elisa Rodriguez, has confirmed reports the wheelchair-bound star is sick, telling the publication, "She is very ill right now."

But Williams' actor husband Edward Bell insists reports his wife is ill are bogus.

He says, "She is not sick at all. She is doing wonderfully well."

Source: WENN