Whoopi Goldberg is firmly denying viral claims connecting her to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, insisting she never had any personal or romantic relationship with him. The Academy Award-winning actress and longtime television host addressed the issue directly on a recent episode of The View, responding to online speculation prompted by newly released court documents.
Goldberg’s name appears in some of the files linked to Epstein, whose criminal history and high-profile associations have fueled years of public scrutiny. However, she emphasized that social media has misrepresented the context of her mention.
“In the name of transparency, my name is in the files. Yes,” Goldberg said on air, reading aloud the specific excerpt that mentions her. The passage referenced an email stating: “Whoopi needs a plane to get to Monaco …”
She clarified that this line was logistical, not personal. “I wasn’t his girlfriend, I wasn’t his friend,” she said. The email, dating back to 2013, involved arrangements for a charity event in Monaco associated with musician Julian Lennon’s foundation. According to Goldberg, it simply asked whether Epstein or someone he knew could provide private jet access to attend the benefit, with costs covered by the charity. She emphasized she never traveled on Epstein’s plane and has publicly discussed her fear of flying, making the implication of secret flights implausible.
The renewed attention followed the release of hundreds of court documents connected to Epstein, revealing names mentioned in emails, contact lists, or testimony. Legal experts note that inclusion in these records does not imply wrongdoing, as many references are incidental.
Goldberg expressed frustration at online speculation. “People actually believe that I was with him. It’s like, honey, come on,” she said. Co-host Joy Behar added that appearing in the files does not indicate guilt or close association.
Goldberg argued that the rush to judgment ignores context. Her personal relationships have long been public, with marriages and partnerships widely reported. The idea of a secret relationship with Epstein contradicts her known transparency.
This is not Goldberg’s first time addressing Epstein-related rumors. She has previously denied visiting his private island and consistently stated she had no involvement in his activities.
By addressing the matter directly on The View, Goldberg aimed to clarify that her mention in the documents was about travel logistics, not a personal connection. She stressed the distinction between being referenced for practical reasons and being implicated in criminal conduct.
In today’s digital media landscape, partial information can spread quickly, often leading to misinformation. Goldberg’s proactive response was an effort to correct the record, reaffirming that her involvement was strictly logistical and that speculation about romance or friendship is entirely unfounded.