Los Angeles, CA – In a jaw-dropping moment that left a live studio audience speechless and sent shockwaves across the internet, actress and TV host Whoopi Goldberg declared on national television that she’s “done with America” — and plans to leave the country alongside WNBA star Brittney Griner.
The unexpected announcement came during a heated segment of The View, where the panel was discussing recent backlash toward female athletes, particularly Griner and rookie sensation Caitlin Clark.
Whoopi, 68, appeared visibly emotional as she leaned forward, slammed her hand on the table, and said, “There is no respect for talent here anymore. NONE. Not if you’re outspoken. Not if you’re strong. Not if you’re different.”
The audience fell silent.
Then came the moment that left the nation stunned. Rising from her seat, Whoopi pointed toward the studio exit and declared, “I’m DONE! I’m leaving — and Brittney, if you’re packing, I’m coming with you!”
Gasps erupted across the set. Even co-host Joy Behar seemed frozen in shock. “Are you serious?” she asked.
“I’ve never been more serious,” Whoopi replied.
Within minutes, the moment went viral across social media. The clip, titled Whoopi Walks Out LIVE, shot to the top of trending topics on X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and YouTube. The hashtag #WhoopiExits trended globally within the hour.
Goldberg later clarified backstage that while she wasn’t literally walking off the set that second, her plans to leave the U.S. are real.
“I’ve had it with the double standards,” she told press after the show. “Brittney Griner was left behind in more ways than one. This country turned its back on her. I’m not waiting around for it to happen to me.”
Griner, who was recently the subject of heated criticism and controversy, has not officially responded to Whoopi’s statement. But sources close to the Phoenix Mercury star say she’s “grateful” for the public support.
Fans and critics alike are now asking: Is Hollywood cracking?
Several other celebrities have expressed frustration in recent weeks over the toxic media environment, perceived political tension, and cultural division in the U.S. Some are even suggesting a larger celebrity exodus could be on the horizon.
“First it’s Whoopi, then who?” one fan posted. “What’s happening to America?”
Others slammed the comment as dramatic and out of touch. “She’s privileged. She can fly to Europe tomorrow. Most of us are stuck here working two jobs,” said one critic online.
Still, Whoopi’s fans are standing by her. Supporters flooded her Instagram with messages like “Stand tall, Queen,” and “You’re right — they don’t deserve your voice.”
Entertainment insiders say the moment could mark a turning point in how celebrities engage with public criticism and cultural debates. “People are tired. The pressure is endless,” said one anonymous producer. “They’re either silenced or attacked — especially women.”
The View producers have not commented on whether Whoopi will take a break or continue her regular appearances. But one source claims next week’s taping may be “tense behind the scenes.”
Meanwhile, Brittney Griner’s next game with the Mercury is expected to draw massive viewership following the viral moment. Some fans are already calling it the “Whoopi Game,” speculating that the two may appear together soon to discuss the issue more in-depth.
For now, the world is watching — and wondering: Is this just one outburst, or the start of something bigger?
As Whoopi Goldberg walked off the stage that day, she turned and said one last thing before the cameras cut to commercial:
“You either grow with us — or you lose us.”
