Whoopi Goldberg is one of the most accomplished and versatile entertainers in American history. As an actor, comedian, author, television host, and activist, Goldberg has built a multifaceted career spanning more than four decades. She is one of the few artists in the world to have achieved EGOT status—having won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award. With such a high-profile presence and enduring influence, many fans still ask: Is Whoopi Goldberg still alive?
This article provides a definitive answer, along with a comprehensive look at Goldberg’s current health, career status, personal life, and ongoing contributions to entertainment and social discourse.
Is Whoopi Goldberg Still Alive in 2025?
Yes, Whoopi Goldberg is still alive as of 2025.
Now 69 years old, Goldberg remains active and engaged in both her television work and public life. She is currently a co-host on the long-running daytime talk show The View, where she continues to contribute sharp insight, humor, and cultural commentary. Goldberg also participates in film, voice work, and advocacy efforts.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Whoopi Goldberg was born Caryn Elaine Johnson on November 13, 1955, in New York City. Raised in the Chelsea-Elliot Houses in Manhattan, she overcame early challenges, including dyslexia and poverty, to pursue acting and comedy.
She moved to California in the 1970s, where she began performing in experimental theater and stand-up comedy. Her one-woman stage show The Spook Show—later retitled Whoopi Goldberg—caught the attention of director Mike Nichols, eventually leading to a Broadway run and a Grammy Award for Best Comedy Recording.
Breakthrough in Film: The Color Purple
Goldberg’s breakthrough on the big screen came in 1985 when she starred as Celie Johnson in Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of The Color Purple. Her performance was widely acclaimed, earning her:
- An Academy Award nomination for Best Actress
- A Golden Globe win for Best Actress in a Drama
The role established her as a serious dramatic talent and opened the door to an array of film roles throughout the late 1980s and 1990s.
Oscar Win and Career Milestones
In 1990, Goldberg won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Oda Mae Brown in Ghost, becoming the second Black woman in history to win an acting Oscar at the time.
Other Notable Film Roles:
- Jumpin’ Jack Flash (1986)
- Clara’s Heart (1988)
- Sister Act (1992) and Sister Act 2 (1993)
- The Lion King (1994, voice of Shenzi)
- Corrina, Corrina (1994)
- How Stella Got Her Groove Back (1998)
- For Colored Girls (2010)
Her performances often combine comedic timing with emotional depth, allowing her to cross genres with ease and authenticity.
Television Career and The View
In 2007, Goldberg joined the daytime talk show The View as a permanent moderator and co-host. She quickly became the show’s central figure, offering measured yet firm opinions on current events, pop culture, and politics.
Highlights:
- Known for her calm and grounded approach to heated discussions
- Often acts as a mediator during debates
- Recognized for championing civil liberties and social justice
- Brings decades of entertainment industry experience to the panel
Goldberg’s tenure on The View has helped the program maintain relevance and attract a diverse audience.
Achieving EGOT Status
Whoopi Goldberg is among a select group of performers who have achieved EGOT status—winning all four major American entertainment awards.
Breakdown of Her Awards:
- Emmy Award: For hosting The View and specials
- Grammy Award: Best Comedy Recording for Whoopi Goldberg: Direct from Broadway
- Oscar: Best Supporting Actress for Ghost
- Tony Award: As a producer of the Broadway musical Thoroughly Modern Millie
Her ability to transcend mediums and continually earn critical acclaim is a testament to her enduring talent and versatility.
Health Updates and Challenges
As of 2025, Whoopi Goldberg is in stable health, though she has experienced health challenges in recent years.
Health History:
- In 2019, Goldberg faced a life-threatening bout of pneumonia and sepsis. She was hospitalized and absent from The View for several weeks.
- She has since spoken openly about the experience, urging viewers to take respiratory illnesses seriously.
- In 2021 and beyond, she occasionally uses a walking aid due to back issues.
Despite these setbacks, Goldberg remains active on television and in public appearances, maintaining a full schedule with moderation when needed.
Personal Life and Beliefs
Goldberg has been married three times but is currently single. She has one daughter, Alex Martin, who is also a producer and actress, and several grandchildren.
Personal Philosophy:
- Goldberg identifies as spiritual but not religious.
- She is known for her liberal social views, including support for LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive rights, and racial equality.
- She has often spoken about the importance of education, civil discourse, and independent thought.
Her straightforward communication style and refusal to conform to expectations have made her both admired and occasionally controversial.
Recent Projects and Continued Influence
Beyond The View, Goldberg continues to engage in projects across various platforms.
Notable Projects:
- Starred in Stephen King’s The Stand (2020) as Mother Abagail
- Executive producer for upcoming Sister Act 3, in collaboration with Disney+
- Continues to lend her voice to animated and documentary projects
- Frequent speaker at cultural and academic events
She also remains a strong advocate for increasing diversity in media and has mentored numerous young actors and comedians throughout her career.
Cultural Legacy and Impact
Whoopi Goldberg’s influence extends far beyond her awards and roles. She has blazed trails for women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals in entertainment, politics, and public discourse.
Key Contributions:
- One of the first Black women to host the Academy Awards
- Helped normalize frank discussion of taboo topics on mainstream television
- Demonstrated that comedians could successfully transition into drama
- Continues to serve as a voice of reason and resilience in polarized times
Goldberg’s legacy is rooted in her ability to connect with a wide audience while remaining authentically herself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Whoopi Goldberg still alive in 2025?
Yes. Whoopi Goldberg is alive and actively working as a television host, producer, and performer.
How old is Whoopi Goldberg?
She was born on November 13, 1955, making her 69 years old in 2025.
Is Whoopi Goldberg still on The View?
Yes. She continues to serve as the show’s lead moderator and a consistent presence on the panel.
What is Whoopi Goldberg best known for?
She is best known for her roles in The Color Purple, Ghost, Sister Act, and as a co-host on The View.
What health issues has Whoopi Goldberg faced?
She has dealt with pneumonia, sepsis, and chronic back issues, but is currently in stable health.
Has Whoopi Goldberg won an Oscar?
Yes. She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1991 for Ghost.
Conclusion
So, is Whoopi Goldberg still alive? Yes—and still thriving. At 69, she continues to influence entertainment, culture, and political discourse through her work on The View, her acting career, and her advocacy.
With her rare combination of humor, intelligence, and courage, Whoopi Goldberg has broken barriers and redefined what it means to be a performer and public thinker. In 2025, her voice remains as relevant as ever—reminding us all of the enduring power of truth, creativity, and resilience.