Whoopi Goldberg (born Caryn Elaine Johnson on November 13, 1955, in New York City, New York, USA) is an American actress, comedian, television host, author, and activist. One of the most versatile and influential entertainers in the world, Goldberg has enjoyed a highly successful career in both film and television, receiving numerous accolades for her performances and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Background
- Family and Childhood: Whoopi Goldberg was born in New York City to Emma Johnson, a nurse and teacher, and Robert James Johnson Jr., a clergyman and teacher. Goldberg grew up in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan and was raised in a working-class family. Her parents divorced when she was young, and she was raised primarily by her mother.
- Education: Goldberg had a challenging time in school, struggling with dyslexia, which made it difficult for her to read. Despite her academic challenges, she was a talented performer from a young age, and she found her passion for acting and comedy. She attended several schools in New York, including the Washington Irving High School, but she eventually dropped out and started focusing on her acting career.
Career Beginnings
- Theater and Stand-Up Comedy: Goldberg started her career in theater and comedy, performing in New York City’s downtown scene in the 1970s. She performed in a one-woman show called “Spook Show,” which explored her thoughts on identity and race. Her unique style and humor caught the attention of Broadway producers, and in 1985, she brought her one-woman show to Broadway, which was later renamed “Whoopi Goldberg: Spook Show.”
- Breakthrough Performance: Goldberg’s breakthrough moment came when she was cast in “The Color Purple” (1985), a film directed by Steven Spielberg based on the novel by Alice Walker. Her portrayal of Celie, an African-American woman who faces oppression and abuse, earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Although she did not win, her performance was widely praised, and it launched her career into the Hollywood spotlight.
Rise to Fame in Film
- “Ghost” (1990): Goldberg’s career soared to new heights when she starred in “Ghost,” a romantic fantasy thriller that became one of the highest-grossing films of the year. She played Oda Mae Brown, a psychic who helps a murdered man (played by Patrick Swayze) communicate with his grieving girlfriend. Goldberg’s comedic yet heartfelt performance earned her Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her the second African American woman to win that category.
- Other Major Films: In the 1990s, Whoopi Goldberg appeared in a variety of films across different genres, solidifying her status as one of the most versatile actresses in Hollywood. Some of her notable films include:
- “Sister Act” (1992): In this beloved comedy, Goldberg played Deloris Van Cartier, a nightclub singer who is placed in witness protection and disguises herself as a nun. The film was a massive commercial success, and Goldberg reprised her role in “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit” (1993).
- “The Long Walk Home” (1990): A film exploring the civil rights movement, in which Goldberg starred alongside Sissy Spacek.
- “Made in America” (1993): A comedy film where she starred with Ted Danson and Nia Long.
- “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” (1998): A romantic comedy-drama in which Goldberg played a supporting role.
- Television: Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Goldberg found success in television as well. She appeared in several TV movies, shows, and specials. Her work in television led to her becoming a host on The View, a daytime talk show that she joined in 2007. Goldberg’s outspoken and honest opinions, combined with her humor, made her a central figure on the show.
Awards and Accomplishments
- EGOT Status: One of Goldberg’s most significant achievements is that she is one of the few entertainers to have won the prestigious EGOT status (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards). This rare accomplishment has only been achieved by a select few, including Audrey Hepburn, Helen Hayes, and Barbra Streisand. Goldberg achieved EGOT status through a combination of her work as an actress, comedian, and producer. She won:
- Academy Award (Oscar) for Best Supporting Actress for Ghost (1990),
- Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album for Whoopi Goldberg: Original Broadway Show Recording (1985),
- Tony Award as a producer for Thoroughly Modern Millie (2002),
- Emmy Awards for her work in television, including for her work on The View and as a producer and performer on various projects.
- Honors and Recognition: In addition to her EGOT, Goldberg has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including:
- Golden Globe Awards (including one for “The Color Purple”) and others.
- Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2001.
- Induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Advocacy and Activism
- Advocacy for Social Causes: Whoopi Goldberg has long been an advocate for a variety of social and political issues. She has been outspoken about racial equality, women’s rights, and LGBTQ+ rights. She also speaks out on issues such as police brutality, poverty, and education.
- Humanitarian Efforts: Goldberg is involved with various humanitarian causes, including efforts to combat HIV/AIDS. She has raised money and awareness for organizations like AmfAR (The Foundation for AIDS Research).
Personal Life
- Marriages and Relationships: Whoopi Goldberg has been married three times. Her first marriage was to Alfred “Ali” Johnson in the 1970s. They had one child together, Alexandrea Martin, who has followed in her mother’s footsteps as an actress and producer. Goldberg’s second marriage was to David Claessen, a cinematographer, from 1986 to 1988. Her third marriage was to Lyle Trachtenberg, a union organizer, from 1994 to 1995.
- Family: Goldberg has one daughter, Alexandrea Martin, who has had a successful career as a producer and actress. She is also a grandmother. Goldberg is very private about her family but often speaks fondly of her daughter and the bond they share.
Legacy and Impact
- Cultural Influence: Whoopi Goldberg has left a lasting impact on both the entertainment industry and American culture. As one of the most prominent Black women in Hollywood, her groundbreaking career has inspired many aspiring actors, particularly women of color. Her comedic style, versatility, and fearlessness in tackling serious subjects have set her apart in the entertainment world.
- Mentorship: Goldberg has been a mentor to many young actors and is known for her encouragement of new voices in the industry. She is known for breaking barriers, and as a comedian and actress, she made waves in an industry that was often difficult for women and people of color to break into.
Conclusion
Whoopi Goldberg is an iconic and multifaceted figure in the entertainment world, with a career that spans across comedy, film, television, theater, and activism. Her talent, wit, and advocacy for social justice have made her a beloved figure worldwide. As a recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including EGOT status, she continues to be an influential figure in the entertainment industry and beyond.
