Childhood and Education Journey of Whoopi Goldberg in Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Whoopi Goldberg. From birth to education, explore key events.

Whoopi Goldberg, born Caryn Elaine Johnson, is a highly accomplished American actor, comedian, author, and television personality. She is one of the select few to have achieved EGOT status, winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award. Her contributions to American humor were recognized in 2001 with the Mark Twain Prize.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

May 9, 1973: Birth of Daughter Alexandrea Martin

On May 9, 1973, Whoopi Goldberg gave birth to her daughter, Alexandrea Martin, who also became an actress and producer.

1973: Marriage to Alvin Martin

In 1973, Whoopi Goldberg married drug counselor Alvin Martin.

1979: Divorce from Alvin Martin

In 1979, Whoopi Goldberg divorced Alvin Martin.

1986: Marriage to David Claessen

In 1986, Whoopi Goldberg married cinematographer David Claessen.

1988: Divorce from David Claessen

In 1988, Whoopi Goldberg divorced David Claessen.

1990: Honorary Harlem Globetrotters Member

In 1990, Whoopi Goldberg was officially named an honorary member of the Harlem Globetrotters exhibition basketball team.

1991: Speaking Out About Abortion

In 1991, Whoopi Goldberg spoke out about her abortion experiences in *The Choices We Made: Twenty-Five Women and Men Speak Out About Abortion*, detailing her use of a coat hanger at age 14 and having six or seven abortions by age 25.

1991: Marijuana Use Before Academy Award

In 1991, Whoopi Goldberg stated that she smoked marijuana before accepting the Best Supporting Actress award for *Ghost*.

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1994: Marriage to Lyle Trachtenberg

In 1994, Whoopi Goldberg married union organizer Lyle Trachtenberg.

1995: Divorce from Lyle Trachtenberg

In 1995, Whoopi Goldberg divorced Lyle Trachtenberg.

April 1, 2010: Joined the Give a Damn Campaign launch

On April 1, 2010, Whoopi Goldberg joined Cyndi Lauper in the launch of her Give a Damn campaign to bring a wider awareness of discrimination of the LGBT community.

August 29, 2010: Death of Mother Emma Johnson

On August 29, 2010, Whoopi Goldberg's mother, Emma Johnson, passed away after suffering a stroke.

October 22, 2010: Return to Sister Act Performance

On October 22, 2010, Whoopi Goldberg returned to her performance in the musical *Sister Act* in London, after leaving temporarily due to her mother's death.

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