Whoopi Goldberg, one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures and a co-host of *The View*, recently found herself at the center of controversy after describing herself as a “working person” during a discussion on the economic struggles faced by American families. Her attempt to relate to everyday workers, likely born out of empathy and a desire to show solidarity, quickly backfired. Given Goldberg’s immense wealth and fame, which she has accumulated over a decades-long career in entertainment, many felt that her choice of words was tone-deaf and out of touch with the struggles faced by the average American.
Goldberg’s career is the epitome of success in the entertainment industry. From her breakout role in *The Color Purple* to her Oscar-winning performance in *Ghost*, she has long been considered one of the most talented actresses of her generation. Over the years, she has earned what is known as EGOT status, having won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony, a rare feat in the industry. With an estimated net worth in the tens of millions, Goldberg’s financial security is far removed from the everyday challenges that most Americans face. It is this disconnect that sparked immediate backlash after her comments.
During a segment on *The View*, Goldberg discussed the financial struggles many American families are facing, particularly the rising cost of living. She referred to herself as a “working person,” a term that typically evokes images of individuals living paycheck to paycheck, dealing with rising rent, soaring grocery bills, and the ongoing challenge of balancing work with financial survival. For most people, being a “working person” means having to navigate a precarious financial situation where a missed paycheck or unexpected medical expense could spell disaster.
Goldberg’s comment, however, was quickly met with criticism. Critics pointed out that her status as a multimillionaire with a long history of fame and financial stability means her experience of “working” is drastically different from that of the average American. While Goldberg may indeed work hard at her craft, her wealth and lifestyle shield her from the daily struggles that most working-class Americans experience. The backlash on social media was swift, with many questioning whether someone with her financial resources can truly understand or empathize with those who are living on the edge.
This controversy highlights a larger issue of celebrity privilege, particularly the challenge public figures face when trying to relate to the struggles of everyday people. Many felt Goldberg’s attempt to align herself with the “working class” seemed inauthentic. Celebrities like Goldberg live in a different world, one where financial security and comfort allow them to live without the constant stress that many Americans face. The notion that someone in Goldberg’s position could truly understand the economic pressures that millions of Americans face is, for many, hard to accept.
While Goldberg’s intention was likely to show empathy and solidarity with those struggling, her comments have ignited a broader debate about the relevance and relatability of public figures. In a time of economic uncertainty and high inflation, the divide between the lives of Hollywood elites and ordinary workers has never been more apparent. For many, a “working person” is someone who works hard just to get by, not someone who has the luxury of financial security and fame. Goldberg’s comments, while perhaps well-meaning, underscore the complex and often uncomfortable reality of celebrity privilege in an unequal society.
