Whoopi Goldberg is an American actress, comedian, author, and television host known for her distinctive humor, activism, and versatile talent in film and television. Born Caryn Elaine Johnson on November 13, 1955, in New York City, she gained fame in the 1980s with her one-woman Broadway show, which showcased her sharp wit and character-driven humor. This success led to her breakthrough in the 1985 film The Color Purple, where her role as Celie earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination.
Goldberg is one of the few entertainers to achieve EGOT status, having won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Oda Mae Brown in the 1990 film Ghost. Beyond acting, Goldberg has had a long career as a co-host on the daytime talk show The View, where she is known for her candid discussions on social issues and politics.
Throughout her career, Goldberg has been a vocal advocate for civil rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and other social causes. Her humor often mixes sharp commentary on race, gender, and culture with her unique brand of comedy, making her one of the most enduring figures in entertainment.