Whoopi Goldberg, born Caryn Elaine Johnson, is an accomplished American actress, comedian, radio host, television personality, game show host, singer, rapper, and author. She has achieved the rare distinction of winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award, making her one of only thirteen individuals to do so. Goldberg is the second African American female performer to win an Academy Award for acting, with her Oscar win coming for her role in the movie "Ghost". She has also won two Golden Globe Awards and two Saturn Awards for her performances in "Star Trek Generations" and "Ghost".
In addition to her work in film and television, Goldberg has also made a name for herself as an author. She has written the Sugar Plum Ballerinas book series, as well as "Whoopi's Big Book of Manners," which was illustrated by Olo. In 2001, she was awarded the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. Goldberg is also a host on ABC's popular daytime talk show "The View". She was introduced as the show's new moderator in September 2007, taking over the role from Meredith Vieira and Rosie O'Donnell.
In October 2007, Goldberg announced on "Larry King Live" that she would be retiring from acting due to a lack of scripts being sent to her. She told King, "Being a Black intellectual with a Jewish surname finally caught up to me," implying that she faced discrimination in the industry. Despite this, Goldberg has had a successful and varied career in entertainment, and she continues to be a prominent and influential figure in the industry. She divides her time between New York and Vermont.