Their shocking departure came in the wake of their surprising exclusion from the 2025 Academy Award nominations, an omission that left both women deeply disappointed and frustrated. The announcement, which broke shortly after the official unveiling of the Oscar nominees for the 97th Academy Awards, has sent shockwaves through Hollywood and beyond, sparking intense debate and raising critical questions about diversity, inclusion, and recognition within the entertainment world.
Both Goldberg and Winfrey, who have spent decades building influential careers in film, television, and media, expressed their profound disappointment and frustration over what they perceived as a lack of respect and appreciation from the American entertainment community. Winfrey, a media mogul and philanthropist, made a poignant statement to the press, saying, “They don’t respect me here. After all the years we’ve dedicated to uplifting the arts and inspiring generations, it’s become clear that our contributions are no longer valued in the place we call home.”
Her voice, tinged with emotion, conveyed a sense of betrayal and heartbreak, reflecting the deeper wounds felt by both women. Goldberg, an EGOT winner known for her roles in films such as Ghost and Sister Act, echoed Winfrey’s sentiments, adding, “We’ve both spent decades breaking barriers and advocating for representation. This exclusion isn’t just about one award—it symbolizes how easily we can be overlooked. It feels deeply personal.”
This heartfelt declaration came just days after the Academy announced its 2025 nominees, a ceremony usually marked by glitz, glamour, and the occasional controversy. However, this year’s list seemed to stir particular discontent, with the absence of Goldberg and Winfrey raising questions about the Academy’s voting process and the criteria used to select nominees. Despite both women’s standout performances in recent, highly acclaimed projects, their exclusion has highlighted what many see as ongoing systemic issues within Hollywood’s elite circles, including biases that continue to affect the careers of Black artists and creators.
The news of Goldberg and Winfrey’s retirement from the United States has triggered an outpouring of support from their massive global fanbase. Social media platforms have been inundated with messages of solidarity, as fans and fellow celebrities alike have expressed disbelief at the Academy’s oversight. Hashtags such as #RespectWhoopiAndOprah and #OscarsControversy2025 have trended across social media platforms, as users criticized the Academy’s failure to recognize the immense contributions these two women have made to both American culture and the global entertainment industry. The hashtag #OscarsControversy2025 has become a rallying cry for fans who feel that Hollywood has failed to honor its most influential and groundbreaking artists.
Goldberg and Winfrey’s exclusion from the Academy’s nomination list has also sparked a wider conversation about diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. Industry insiders are now calling for a deeper examination of the systemic barriers that continue to prevent minority artists from being recognized at the highest levels of their craft.
While significant strides have been made in recent years toward inclusivity, the controversy surrounding this year’s nominations has served as a stark reminder that there is still much work to be done. This issue is particularly sensitive for Black artists, who have long struggled to secure fair representation and recognition in an industry that has often marginalized their contributions. The exclusion of Goldberg and Winfrey has therefore reignited debates about whether Hollywood is truly committed to diversity or whether these efforts are simply performative.
Notable celebrities and public figures have already come forward in defense of Goldberg and Winfrey. Actress Viola Davis, a fellow advocate for representation in Hollywood, expressed her outrage at the decision, calling it “incomprehensible and unacceptable.” She further emphasized the need for greater accountability, stating, “We must do better.”
Director Ava DuVernay, who has long been an advocate for racial justice and inclusion, also spoke out in support of the two women, tweeting, “Oprah and Whoopi are legends whose legacies will outshine any single nomination or award. The industry needs a profound reflection.” Their statements reflect the broader sentiment within the entertainment community, where many believe that the industry’s failure to recognize Goldberg and Winfrey is indicative of a deeper issue that must be addressed.
In response to the public outcry, representatives from the Academy issued a carefully worded statement expressing their admiration for Goldberg and Winfrey’s “tremendous contributions” to the entertainment industry. The statement explained that nominations are determined by a vote of industry professionals and that the Academy strives to ensure fairness and representation. However, this response has done little to quell the disappointment felt by fans or the two stars themselves, who have already begun making preparations to leave the United States.
While Goldberg and Winfrey have not disclosed the specific countries they are considering relocating to, sources close to the women suggest that they are looking into nations known for their appreciation of artistic freedom and cultural diversity. This move marks a significant turning point in the careers of two of the most influential women in entertainment, symbolizing not only their personal disillusionment with the Academy and Hollywood but also a broader statement about the lack of true inclusivity in American culture.
Their planned departure from the United States serves as a powerful reminder that despite their immense influence, Goldberg and Winfrey have not been immune to the prejudices that continue to exist within the entertainment industry. Their decision to leave the country highlights the ongoing challenges faced by many Black artists, who continue to be denied recognition and opportunities despite their groundbreaking work. While this announcement may seem like a personal decision, it also reflects a larger cultural shift, one that calls for greater inclusion, recognition, and respect for all artists, regardless of their race or background.
The departure of Goldberg and Winfrey from the United States has far-reaching implications for the entertainment industry, as it brings to light the systemic issues that continue to plague Hollywood. Their announcement is not just a personal statement of frustration; it is a clarion call for meaningful change within the industry. The lack of recognition for these two legendary figures serves as a stark reminder of how far Hollywood still has to go in its efforts to be truly inclusive and to fairly honor the contributions of all artists.
As the entertainment industry continues to grapple with this startling development, one thing remains clear: the legacies of Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey cannot be diminished by any award or nomination. Their contributions to American culture, their tireless advocacy for representation, and their groundbreaking work in film and television have left an indelible mark on the world. Regardless of the Oscars’ decision, their impact transcends any nomination, and their departure from the United States is a powerful statement about the need for continued progress in the fight for inclusivity and recognition in Hollywood and beyond.