Whoopi Goldberg, a true Hollywood icon, has inspired millions with her exceptional acting skills, wit, and determination. Born as Caryn Elaine Johnson, she chose the moniker “Whoopi” to make her mark in the entertainment world. Today, we’ll explore her journey from humble beginnings to achieving superstardom.
In the next sections, we’ll delve into her early life, career highlights, and contributions to the film and television industries. Additionally, we’ll discuss her involvement in various social causes and the recognition she’s received for her incredible work. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of Whoopi Goldberg’s remarkable career and impact on society.
Discover Whoopi Goldberg’s career highlights, including her movies and TV shows, net worth, personal life, and more. Learn about her family, real name, relationships, and intriguing facts about this accomplished actress and talk show host.
Whoopi Goldberg Bio/Wiki Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Caryn Elaine Johnson |
| Birth Date | November 13, 1955 |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, United States |
| Occupation | Actress, Comedian, TV Host, Author, Producer |
| Notable Works | The Color Purple, Ghost, Sister Act, The View |
| Awards | Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony (EGOT Winner) |
| Activism | Humanitarian, LGBTQ+ Rights, Racial Equality, Women’s Rights, Environmental Causes |
| Hobbies/Interests | Writing, Entrepreneurship, Art Collection, Theatre Production, Philately |
This table provides a brief overview of Whoopi Goldberg’s background, accomplishments, and interests. Use it as a quick reference guide to her life and career.
Early Life and Personal Background
Whoopi Goldberg was born Caryn Elaine Johnson on November 13, 1955, in New York City. Raised in a housing project in Manhattan, she faced numerous challenges during her formative years. Her mother, Emma Harris, worked as a nurse and a teacher, while her father, Robert James Johnson Jr., was a clergyman. Her parents separated when she was quite young, leaving Emma to raise Whoopi and her brother, Clyde, as a single mother.
Growing up, Whoopi experienced dyslexia, which made school difficult for her. Nevertheless, her mother’s unwavering support and encouragement helped her persevere. She attended Washington Irving High School but dropped out before completing her studies.
To pursue her passion for performing, Whoopi took part in various theater productions and joined the avant-garde theater group, the Hudson Guild. Additionally, she took on odd jobs, such as working as a mortuary beautician and a bricklayer, to make ends meet.
In the late 1970s, Whoopi relocated to California, where she honed her craft as a comedian and actress. She joined the Blake Street Hawkeyes Theatre troupe in San Francisco, which allowed her to develop her unique stage persona further. It was during this time that she adopted the stage name “Whoopi Goldberg,” setting the stage for her illustrious career.
Whoopi Goldberg Young
When Whoopi Goldberg was young, she faced numerous challenges and adversities. Born as Caryn Elaine Johnson on November 13, 1955, in New York City, she grew up in a low-income housing project in Manhattan called the Chelsea-Elliot Houses. Raised by her single mother, Emma Harris, Whoopi struggled with dyslexia, which made it difficult for her to succeed academically.
Despite these challenges, she discovered her passion for performing arts at a young age. Whoopi began her acting career by participating in theater productions and eventually dropped out of high school to pursue acting full-time. In her early years, she worked various odd jobs to support herself while honing her craft as a performer. During this time, she adopted the stage name “Whoopi Goldberg.”
Her big break came in 1984 with her one-woman show, “The Spook Show,” which featured her unique character-driven monologues. This show caught the attention of director Mike Nichols, who helped bring it to Broadway, rebranded as “Whoopi Goldberg.” Her Broadway success led to her first major film role in “The Color Purple” (1985), directed by Steven Spielberg, which earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress and an Academy Award nomination. This marked the beginning of her illustrious career in Hollywood.
Age: How Old Is Whoopi Goldberg?
Whoopi Goldberg, born on November 13, 1955, has defied the test of time as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. At the age of 67, her long-lasting career is a testament to her talent, resilience, and adaptability. As she continues to break barriers in Hollywood, her age has only added to her wisdom and experience, proving that passion and talent know no bounds.
Throughout the years, Whoopi has demonstrated that age is merely a number, as she remains as relevant and active in the industry as ever. Despite entering her late sixties, she continues to captivate audiences with her wit, humor, and insightful perspectives, both on-screen and off. Her commitment to advocacy and activism has only grown stronger over time, further solidifying her influence and impact on society.
Height: How Tall Is Whoopi Goldberg?
Whoopi Goldberg stands at approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall (165 cm). Her height is just one aspect of her distinct physical appearance, which also includes her trademark dreadlocks and expressive facial features. Despite her average height, Whoopi’s commanding presence and talent have allowed her to make a significant impact in the entertainment industry throughout her extensive career.
Breakthrough In The Entertainment Industry
Whoopi Goldberg’s big break in the entertainment industry came in 1983 when she created a one-woman show called “The Spook Show.” Featuring a series of character monologues, the show highlighted her exceptional range as an actress and comedian. The performance caught the attention of renowned director Mike Nichols, who helped her bring the show to Broadway in 1984, now titled “Whoopi Goldberg.”
Her Broadway success caught Hollywood’s eye, and soon, Whoopi landed her first major film role in Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of Alice Walker’s novel, “The Color Purple” (1985). Her portrayal of Celie, a resilient and long-suffering woman, earned her widespread acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
Following her breakthrough, Whoopi starred in numerous films, including “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” (1986) and “Burglar” (1987). However, it was her role as Oda Mae Brown in the romantic drama “Ghost” (1990) that truly cemented her status as a Hollywood powerhouse. Her performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her only the second African American woman to win the prestigious award at that time.
With her unique blend of humor, versatility, and undeniable talent, Whoopi continued to captivate audiences, paving the way for an extraordinary career in the entertainment industry.
Acclaimed Film Roles and Accomplishments
Over the years, Whoopi Goldberg has amassed an impressive filmography, showcasing her incredible range and skill as an actress. Some of her most acclaimed film roles and accomplishments include:
- “Sister Act” (1992): Whoopi starred as Deloris Van Cartier, a lounge singer who goes undercover as a nun to hide from the mob. The film’s success led to a sequel, “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit” (1993), and the creation of a Broadway musical based on the original movie.
- “The Lion King” (1994): In this beloved Disney animated film, Whoopi lent her voice to the mischievous hyena, Shenzi. The movie became a box office hit, and her character remains a memorable part of the film’s legacy.
- “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” (1998): Whoopi played Delilah, the wise and supportive best friend to the film’s protagonist, Stella, portrayed by Angela Bassett. Her performance added depth and humor to the romantic drama.
- “Girl, Interrupted” (1999): In this critically acclaimed film, Whoopi portrayed Valerie Owens, a nurse at a mental institution. Her character offered support and guidance to the patients, including the protagonist, played by Winona Ryder.
In addition to these noteworthy roles, Whoopi has also made her mark as a producer, director, and writer. She produced the documentary “Moms Mabley: I Got Somethin’ to Tell You” (2013), which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival. Furthermore, she directed the made-for-television movie “The Five Heartbeats: A Musical Journey” (2019).
With a career spanning over three decades, Whoopi Goldberg has earned her place as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and accomplished actresses.
Television Success
Whoopi Goldberg’s television career has been equally successful, marked by notable accomplishments and lasting impact. Some highlights of her television work include:
- “Star Trek: The Next Generation” (1988-1993): Whoopi portrayed Guinan, a wise and mysterious bartender aboard the USS Enterprise. As a recurring guest star, she contributed significantly to the show’s popularity and success.
- “The Whoopi Goldberg Show” (1992-1993): Whoopi hosted her own late-night talk show, interviewing various celebrities and public figures. Though it only lasted for one season, the show demonstrated her versatility as a performer.
- “Hollywood Squares” (1998-2002): Serving as an executive producer and a regular panelist, Whoopi brought her trademark wit to the popular game show. Her presence helped revitalize the series and attracted new viewers.
- “Whoopi” (2003-2004): In this sitcom, Whoopi starred as Mavis Rae, a former one-hit-wonder singer who runs a small hotel in New York City. Though short-lived, the show further showcased her comedic talent.
- “The View” (2007-present): Whoopi joined the long-running daytime talk show as a co-host and moderator. Known for her strong opinions and insightful commentary, she has become a key figure on the show, earning Daytime Emmy Awards for her work.
Throughout her television career, Whoopi Goldberg has consistently demonstrated her ability to engage audiences with her unique sense of humor, insightful perspectives, and undeniable charisma. Her work on both scripted and unscripted TV shows has solidified her status as a versatile and enduring talent in the entertainment industry.
Advocacy and Activism
Whoopi Goldberg has been an outspoken advocate for various social causes throughout her career, using her platform to raise awareness and make a difference. Some of her most significant contributions to advocacy and activism include:
- Humanitarian Efforts: Whoopi has supported numerous charitable organizations, such as Comic Relief, which raises funds to combat poverty and homelessness. Additionally, she’s been involved with Amnesty International, UNICEF, and the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation.
- LGBTQ+ Rights: A strong ally to the LGBTQ+ community, Whoopi has used her voice to promote equal rights and acceptance for all. She has been honored with the Human Rights Campaign’s Ally for Equality Award for her work in this area.
- Racial Equality: As an African American woman in Hollywood, Whoopi has consistently advocated for racial equality and representation in the entertainment industry. She has spoken out against racial discrimination and has used her influence to create opportunities for people of color.
- Women’s Rights: Whoopi has been a vocal supporter of women’s rights, particularly in the realm of reproductive health. She has championed access to safe and legal abortion services and has been a strong advocate for Planned Parenthood.
- Environmental Causes: As an environmental activist, Whoopi has lent her support to organizations such as the Rainforest Foundation and the Union of Concerned Scientists. She has also participated in events like Earth Day to raise awareness about environmental issues.
Through her tireless efforts and commitment to various causes, Whoopi Goldberg has made a lasting impact beyond the realm of entertainment. Her advocacy and activism have inspired countless individuals and contributed to meaningful change on multiple fronts.
Personal Interests and Pursuits
In addition to her prolific career and activism, Whoopi Goldberg has pursued various personal interests and hobbies, which further showcase her diverse talents and passions:
- Writing: Whoopi has authored several books, ranging from children’s stories to candid reflections on life. Some of her works include “Book” (1997), “Is It Just Me? Or Is It Nuts Out There?” (2010), and the children’s book series “Sugar Plum Ballerinas.”
- Entrepreneurship: In 2016, Whoopi co-founded Whoopi & Maya, a medical cannabis company that aimed to offer relief to women experiencing menstrual discomfort. Though the company ceased operations in 2020, it demonstrated her interest in alternative medicine and entrepreneurship.
- Art Collection: Whoopi is an avid collector of art, with a particular affinity for African American artists. Her collection includes works by renowned artists such as Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, and Charles White.
- Theatre Production: Whoopi has extended her love for theatre beyond acting, venturing into production. She served as a producer for the Broadway adaptation of “Sister Act: The Musical” and the West End production of “White Noise.”
- Philately: Whoopi has expressed her interest in philately, or stamp collecting, as a hobby. Her collection focuses on African American history and culture, which she has showcased in various interviews and talk show appearances.
These personal interests and pursuits reveal the many facets of Whoopi Goldberg’s personality, highlighting her creativity, curiosity, and commitment to various forms of art and expression.
Whoopi’s lasting impact on Hollywood
Whoopi Goldberg’s lasting impact on Hollywood is multifaceted, encompassing her groundbreaking achievements, inspirational career, and influential work as an advocate for change. Some key aspects of her enduring legacy include:
- Trailblazer: As one of the few African American actresses to have enjoyed a long, successful career in Hollywood, Whoopi has broken barriers and paved the way for future generations of performers. Her accomplishments have inspired and empowered countless artists of color to pursue their dreams.
- Versatility: Whoopi’s ability to excel in various genres, from drama and comedy to voice acting and hosting, showcases her immense talent and adaptability. Her diverse body of work has set a high standard for performers in the industry.
- EGOT Winner: Whoopi is one of the rare artists to have achieved EGOT status, meaning she has won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award. This remarkable accomplishment highlights her extraordinary contributions to the entertainment world and serves as a testament to her talent and dedication.
- Activism: Her commitment to advocacy and activism has made a significant impact both within and beyond the entertainment industry. Whoopi has used her fame as a platform to drive change and raise awareness on critical social issues, inspiring others to follow suit.
- Mentorship: Throughout her career, Whoopi has served as a mentor and role model to many younger artists. By sharing her wisdom, experiences, and support, she has played a vital role in shaping the careers of countless performers in Hollywood.
In summary, Whoopi Goldberg’s lasting impact on Hollywood is evident through her trailblazing achievements, unmatched versatility, and unwavering commitment to making a difference. Her legacy will continue to inspire and influence generations of artists and activists for years to come.
Whoopi Goldberg Spouse
Whoopi Goldberg has been married three times, though she is currently not married. Her previous spouses include:
- Alvin Martin (1973-1979): Whoopi married her first husband, Alvin Martin, in 1973. They have a daughter together named Alexandrea Martin, who was born in 1973. The couple divorced in 1979.
- David Claessen (1986-1988): Whoopi’s second marriage was to Dutch cinematographer David Claessen. They got married in 1986 but ended up divorcing in 1988.
- Lyle Trachtenberg (1994-1995): In 1994, Whoopi married union organizer Lyle Trachtenberg. Their marriage was short-lived, and they divorced in 1995.
Since her last divorce, Whoopi Goldberg has not remarried and has expressed in various interviews that she prefers to remain single.
Whoopi Goldberg Daughter
Whoopi Goldberg has one daughter named Alexandrea Martin, who was born on May 9, 1973. Alexandrea is the daughter of Whoopi and her first husband, Alvin Martin. Following in her mother’s footsteps, Alexandrea has pursued a career in the entertainment industry as an actress, producer, and director. She has appeared in various films and television shows, and she has also worked behind the scenes on numerous projects.
Was Tom Selleck Married To Whoopi Goldberg?
No, Tom Selleck was never married to Whoopi Goldberg. Tom Selleck has been married to his current wife, Jillie Mack, since 1987. Whoopi Goldberg, on the other hand, has been married three times: to Alvin Martin (1973-1979), David Claessen (1986-1988), and Lyle Trachtenberg (1994-1995).
Whoopi Goldberg Net Worth
Caryn Elaine Johnson, popularly known as Whoopi Goldberg, boasts a net worth of $60 million. Widely recognized as the co-host and moderator on the talk show “The View,” she joined the program in 2001, replacing Rosie O’Donnell. Her debut attracted 3.4 million viewers, marking a 7 percent increase from O’Donnell’s premiere the previous season. Whoopi often shares controversial opinions on the show, sparking debates among viewers. Her annual salary for “The View” is $8 million.
Besides her work in film and talk shows, Whoopi is also an accomplished writer, penning both nonfiction and children’s books. She has starred on stage, including a 2010 Broadway production of “Sister Act.” As an entrepreneur, Whoopi co-founded Whoopi & Maya, a company that creates medical cannabis products for women seeking relief from menstrual cramps.
Social Media
Whoopi Goldberg maintains an active presence on social media, particularly on Twitter and Instagram. Below are her official accounts:
- Twitter: @WhoopiGoldberg – https://twitter.com/WhoopiGoldberg
- Instagram: @whoopigoldberg – https://www.instagram.com/whoopigoldberg/
You can follow her on these platforms to stay updated on her latest projects, opinions, and personal life.
