Whoopi Goldberg

Early Life and Education

Whoopi Goldberg, born Caryn Elaine Johnson on November 13, 1955, in New York City, is an American actress, comedian, author, and television personality. Raised in the Chelsea-Elliot Houses, a public housing project in Manhattan, Goldberg's early life was marked by struggle and perseverance. Her mother, Emma Johnson, was a nurse and teacher, while her father, Robert James Johnson Jr., was a clergyman. Goldberg attended St. Columba's, a local Catholic school, and later Washington Irving High School, although she dropped out at the age of 17.

Career Beginnings

Goldberg's career began in the theater. She moved to California in the mid-1970s, where she joined the Blake Street Hawkeyes, a theater troupe in Berkeley. It was during this time that she developed her unique comedic voice and honed her skills as a performer. Her one-woman show, "The Spook Show," which later became "Whoopi Goldberg," was a critical success and caught the attention of director Mike Nichols, who brought the show to Broadway in 1984.

Breakthrough and Film Career

Goldberg's breakthrough came with her role in the film "The Color Purple" (1985), directed by Steven Spielberg. Her portrayal of Celie, a young African American woman in the early 20th century South, earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. This role established her as a serious actress capable of dramatic depth.

Goldberg continued to build her film career with a mix of comedic and dramatic roles. In 1990, she starred in "Ghost," a romantic fantasy film, alongside Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore. Her performance as Oda Mae Brown, a psychic, won her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her the second African American woman to win an Oscar.

Television Career

Goldberg's television career is equally notable. She has been a co-host on the daytime talk show "The View" since 2007, where she brings her unique perspective to a wide range of topics. Her work on television has earned her several Daytime Emmy Awards and solidified her status as a versatile entertainer.

Theater and Other Ventures

In addition to her film and television work, Goldberg has remained active in theater. She produced and starred in the 1992 Broadway revival of "Funny Girl" and has been involved in various other productions. Goldberg is also an accomplished author, having written several books, including "Book" (1997) and "Is It Just Me? Or Is It Nuts Out There?" (2010).

Activism and Philanthropy

Goldberg is known for her activism and philanthropic efforts. She has been a vocal advocate for various causes, including LGBTQ+ rights, HIV/AIDS awareness, and racial equality. Her work in these areas has earned her numerous awards and recognitions, including the Harvard Foundation's Artist of the Year Award in 2001.

Personal Life

Goldberg has been married three times and has one daughter, Alexandrea Martin, who is also an actress and producer. Despite her busy career, Goldberg has always made time for her family and is known for her close relationship with her daughter and grandchildren.

Legacy and Impact

Whoopi Goldberg's impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable. She is one of the few entertainers to have won an EGOT—an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award. Her versatility as an actress, comedian, and television personality has made her a beloved figure in American culture. Goldberg's contributions to theater, film, and television, along with her activism, have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire future generations.

Whoopi Goldberg performing on stage, wearing a colorful outfit and smiling.

Whoopi Goldberg performing on stage, wearing a colorful outfit and smiling.

See Also

• The Color Purple (film)
• Ghost (1990 film)
• The View (talk show)
• EGOT
• LGBTQ+ rights