Whoopi Goldberg: From stage to business mogul

Oluwatosin Racheal Alabi -

In the ever-evolving stage of Hollywood, few luminaries shine as brightly as Whoopi Goldberg. With a career spanning several decades, Goldberg has not just entered the rarefied realm of EGOT winners earning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony but has also cultivated a varied and successful business portfolio that speaks to her ingenuity and business acumen.

Goldberg, whose birth name is Caryn Elaine Johnson, rose from the challenging environment of Manhattan’s housing projects to achieve Hollywood stardom, embodying the very essence of the American Dream. Her path has been marked by significant milestones that many in the industry can only aspire to. Yet, Goldberg’s impact extends far beyond her performance accolades. She has also been a trailblazer in entrepreneurial ventures, exploring realms like health and wellness, fashion, and media production.

One of Goldberg’s more notable ventures was Whoopi & Maya, a pioneering company in the cannabis industry focusing on women’s health products, although it ceased operations in 2020. Her business pursuits showcase a pattern of engaging with progressive markets and breaking societal barriers. In the dynamic commercial landscape of the early 2020s, Goldberg has continued to expand her reach.

  • Dubgee: Goldberg’s size-inclusive clothing line, Dubgee, mirrors her personal philosophy of comfort and self-expression. The brand offers a wide variety of stylish and accessible apparel, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in fashion.
  • One Ho Productions: Under her production banner, One Ho Productions, Goldberg has cultivated a range of content including television series, documentaries, and film projects, further establishing her versatility and creative vision within the entertainment industry.
  • Emma & Clyde: Launched in 2021, Emma & Clyde marked Goldberg’s re-entry into the cannabis market. The line includes an assortment of products such as edibles, pre-rolls, flowers, and accessories, tailored to meet the discerning tastes and preferences of its customers.
  • San Diego Repertory Theatre: In addition to her screen and business endeavors, Goldberg co-founded the San Diego Repertory Theatre, a cultural institution that enriches the San Diego community with diverse and innovative theatrical productions.

Through her various enterprises, Goldberg has not only solidified her status as an entertainment icon but also as a savvy entrepreneur. Despite the challenges and controversies that may arise, her resilience and influence remain potent, ensuring her ventures and her legacy continue to thrive and impact both her audience and the business world. With a net worth reported by Billionaires.Africa to be around $60 million, Goldberg’s entrepreneurial journey is as compelling and instructive as her storied career in the limelight.