Whoopi Goldberg

About

Whoopi Goldberg is a name that has become synonymous with success, talent, and activism in the entertainment industry. As an actress, comedian, and television personality, Goldberg has made an indelible mark on popular culture with her unique brand of humor and dynamic performances. But beyond her onscreen work, Goldberg is also a vocal advocate for social issues and philanthropic causes.

In this profile, we will take a closer look at Whoopi Goldberg’s life and career, from her early beginnings in New York City to her current projects and future plans.

Early Life and Career of Whoopi Goldberg

Childhood and Family Background

Whoopi Goldberg was born on November 13, 1955, in Manhattan, New York City, as Caryn Elaine Johnson. She was raised in a housing project in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood. Her mother, Emma Johnson, was a nurse and teacher, and her father, Robert James Johnson Jr., was a clergyman. Whoopi has described her childhood as very difficult, marked by poverty, abuse, and discrimination. Her name, Whoopi, was a childhood nickname derived from “”whoopee cushion,”” a prank toy she was fond of.

Early Struggles and Life-changing Experience

After dropping out of high school, Whoopi Goldberg went through a series of odd jobs, including bricklayer, beautician, and bank teller. In 1974, she gave birth to her daughter, Alexandrea Martin. In the late 1970s, a friend dared her to try stand-up comedy at a small club in San Diego. Goldberg took the dare and discovered her talent for making people laugh.

Entry into Show Business

In the early 1980s, Whoopi Goldberg moved to San Francisco and became a fixture in the city’s comedy scene, performing at clubs like the Comedy Store and the Improv. She also formed a comedy duo with fellow comedian Billy Crystal and made several appearances on his TV show, “”Soap.”” In 1982, she landed a role in the off-Broadway one-woman show, “”Spook Show,”” which drew critical acclaim and caught the attention of filmmaker Steven Spielberg.

Rise to Fame in Hollywood Industry

Breakthrough Role in The Color Purple

In 1985, Whoopi Goldberg got her big break when she was cast as Celie in Steven Spielberg’s film adaptation of Alice Walker’s novel “”The Color Purple.”” Her powerful performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, making her the second African American woman ever to be nominated in that category.

Box Office Success of Sister Act Franchise

In 1992, Whoopi Goldberg starred in the comedy movie “”Sister Act,”” which became a huge box office hit and spawned a sequel. Goldberg played a lounge singer who goes into hiding in a convent and helps the choir find its groove. This role cemented her reputation as a talented comedian.

Notable Roles in Film and Television

Throughout her career, Whoopi Goldberg has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows. Some of her notable roles include Oda Mae Brown in “”Ghost,”” Guinan in “”Star Trek: The Next Generation,”” and Shenzi in the animated film “”The Lion King.”” She also co-hosted the daytime talk show “”The View”” from 2007 to 2016.

Whoopi Goldberg’s Achievements and Awards

Academy, Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Awards

Whoopi Goldberg is one of the few performers to have won all four of the major American entertainment awards: an Academy Award, an Emmy Award, a Grammy Award, and a Tony Award. She won her Academy Award for “”Ghost,”” her Emmy Awards for her work as a talk show host and guest star on “”Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,”” her Grammy Awards for her comedy albums, and her Tony Award for producing the Broadway musical “”Thoroughly Modern Millie.””

Honorary Degrees and Inductions to Hall of Fame

Whoopi Goldberg has received several honorary degrees from universities such as Princeton, New York University, and Harvard. She has also been inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the American Theater Hall of Fame.

Goldberg’s Journey as a Comedian and Actress

Stand-up Comedy Career and Style

Whoopi Goldberg’s stand-up comedy career is marked by her unique style and social commentary. She often incorporates political issues and personal experiences into her routines, and is known for her use of characterizations and accents.

Collaborations with Other Comedians and Actors

Throughout her career, Whoopi Goldberg has collaborated with a wide range of comedians and actors, including Robin Williams, Billy Crystal, Chris Rock, and Tyler Perry. Her friendships and professional relationships have often led to inspiring and memorable performances.

Diversity and Inclusion Advocacy in Entertainment Industry

Whoopi Goldberg is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry. She has been vocal about the need for greater representation of women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community both in front of and behind the camera. Her activism has helped to create more opportunities for underrepresented groups in Hollywood.

Activism and Philanthropy Work of Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is not only an accomplished actress and comedian but is also known for her philanthropy work and activism. She has been involved in various social and political causes over the years.

Social and Political Activism

Goldberg has been a vocal advocate for civil rights, LGBT rights, and women’s rights. She has also spoken out against racism and police brutality. In 1999, she became a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has worked to raise awareness about children’s rights around the world.

In 2004, Goldberg took part in the March for Women’s Lives in Washington, D.C. She has been an outspoken critic of the Trump administration, and in 2020 she served as one of the hosts for the Democratic National Convention.

Humanitarian and Environmental Causes

Goldberg has also been dedicated to various humanitarian and environmental causes. She has supported organizations like AIDS Project Los Angeles, amfAR, and Comic Relief, which supports poverty alleviation in the United States and around the world.

She supports environmental causes like the Rainforest Foundation Fund, National Wildlife Federation, and the Sierra Club. In 2020, she joined a group of celebrities in launching the “”Coalition for Clean Air”” campaign, aimed at reducing air pollution in the United States.

Personal Life and Hobbies of Goldberg

Apart from her busy schedule in the entertainment industry, Goldberg likes to keep a low profile and spend time with her family.

Family Life and Relationships

Goldberg has been divorced three times, and she has a daughter, Alex Martin. She is a proud grandmother of three and loves spending time with her family.

Interests and Passion Projects

Goldberg is a lover of fine art and has authored several books; one of them being a children’s book named “”Whoopi’s Big Book of Manners.””

She’s also worked to bring her love of cannabis to the public by creating a line of medical marijuana products aimed at providing relief to women in pain. She is passionate about advocating for the use of cannabis and its legalization.

Goldberg’s Recent Projects and Future Plans

Goldberg continues to make significant strides in the entertainment industry, and she has many projects in the works.

Current Hosting and Producing Gigs

Goldberg currently hosts “”The View,”” which is popular daytime talk and news show. She is also a producer of popular television shows like the “”Sister Act”” musical adaptation.

New Film and Television Projects in Development

Goldberg has exciting new projects in the works, including a comedy series for ABC and a biopic she recently signed on to produce about Emmett Till.

Upcoming Book and Podcast Releases

Goldberg will release her latest book, “”The Unqualified Hostess,”” in September 2021. Set for release in 2022 is an upcoming podcast series on Audible, where she will have conversations with influential figures like Patti LaBelle, Ava DuVernay, and Neil deGrasse Tyson.Whoopi Goldberg’s contributions to the entertainment industry and society at large are immeasurable. Her achievements in film, television, and comedy have solidified her place as a trailblazer in Hollywood. But beyond her professional accomplishments, Goldberg’s dedication to activism and philanthropy serves as an inspiration to many. As she continues to entertain and inspire audiences around the world, it’s clear that Whoopi Goldberg’s influence will be felt for generations to come.

FAQ

What is Whoopi Goldberg’s real name?

Whoopi Goldberg’s real name is Caryn Elaine Johnson.

How many Academy Awards has Whoopi Goldberg won?

Whoopi Goldberg has won one Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Ghost (1990).

What is Whoopi Goldberg’s net worth?

As of 2021, Whoopi Goldberg’s estimated net worth is $60 million.

What are some of the philanthropic causes that Whoopi Goldberg is involved with?

Whoopi Goldberg is involved with a variety of philanthropic causes, including AIDS research and awareness, efforts to combat homelessness, and environmental sustainability.

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Last Updated: 2nd April 2023