Director Blitz Bazawule and the star-studded cast of the musical movie “The Color Purple” embarked on a special visit to “The View” to pay tribute to Whoopi Goldberg, a pivotal figure in the 1985 movie adaptation of Alice Walker’s renowned novel. As the film approached its Christmas Day release, the ensemble, including Fantasia Barrino, Danielle Brooks, and Taraji P. Henson, expressed their admiration and gratitude to Goldberg, who portrayed Celie, the central character in the 1985 rendition.
Reflecting on Goldberg’s significance, Bazawule emphasized the sanctity of “The Color Purple,” acknowledging its status as a Pulitzer Prize-winning book and a cinematic classic. “We owe you,” he remarked, underscoring the impact of Goldberg’s role in the narrative. Henson led a standing ovation for Goldberg, commemorating her groundbreaking performance that marked her journey toward becoming the first Black woman to achieve an EGOT.
However, the studio audience and viewers remained unaware of a remarkable surprise: Goldberg’s clandestine involvement in the latest adaptation of “The Color Purple.” Bazawule disclosed to Variety the secrecy shrouding Goldberg’s cameo until after the film’s theatrical release, with only a select few aware of her participation. Despite her uncredited role, Goldberg made a touching appearance as the local midwife in a pivotal scene featuring a young Celie, played by Phylicia Pearl Mpasi, during childbirth.
Goldberg’s cameo, a symbolic passing of the torch to the next generation of Celies, resonated deeply, underscoring the timelessness and significance of Walker’s narrative. This unexpected appearance further cemented the link between the 1985 movie and its 2023 counterpart, produced by influential figures like Steven Spielberg, Quincy Jones, Oprah Winfrey, and Scott Sanders.
Discussing the integration of Goldberg into the story, Bazawule highlighted the intentional choice of the midwife role for its symbolic significance. Screenwriter Marcus Gardley echoed this sentiment, describing the scene as a poignant passing of the baton from Goldberg to Mpasi, emphasizing pride and encouragement.
Approaching Goldberg for the role was a nerve-wracking yet pivotal moment for Bazawule, who fondly recalled her warmth and commitment to the project, affirming her presence with humor and enthusiasm. While details about Goldberg’s viewing of the final cut remain undisclosed, her positive reception during their appearance on “The View” hinted at satisfaction with the outcome.
Oprah Winfrey, discussing Goldberg’s cameo, expressed admiration for the tribute to her co-star and declined her own cameo, believing it would distract from Goldberg’s special moment in the film.
Goldberg’s covert appearance in “The Color Purple” stands as a testament to the film’s enduring legacy, a heartfelt tribute to an icon whose impact spans generations.
