Whoopi Goldberg's Family: Meet Her Children & Grandchildren | Latest News
Apr 22 2025
Is the name Whoopi Goldberg synonymous with entertainment royalty? Undeniably, the answer is yes, given her impressive career spanning decades and her status as one of the few EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) winners in the world. Her journey, marked by both triumphs and tribulations, offers a captivating narrative that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Whoopi Goldberg, born Caryn Elaine Johnson, has etched her name into the annals of entertainment history. But beyond the accolades and the public persona, lies a fascinating story of family, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of artistic expression. From her humble beginnings to her current status as a celebrated actress, comedian, author, and television personality, her life is an open book, filled with chapters that intrigue and inspire. Her life, like her art, is complex and multifaceted, and the story of Whoopi Goldberg extends far beyond her on-screen performances.
Full Name | Caryn Elaine Johnson (Known as Whoopi Goldberg) |
Born | November 13, 1955 |
Birthplace | New York City, New York, USA |
Occupation | Actress, Comedian, Author, Television Personality, Producer, Talk Show Host, Singer |
Known For | Acting in films like "The Color Purple," "Ghost," "Sister Act," "How Stella Got Her Groove Back"; as well as hosting the daytime talk show "The View." |
Awards | EGOT Winner: Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony Awards. |
Marriages | Alvin Martin (1973-1979), David Claessen (1986-1988), Lyle Trachtenberg (1994-1995) |
Children | Alexandrea Martin, Scott Goldberg |
Grandchildren | Amarah, and more |
Parents | Emma Johnson (mother), Robert Johnson (father) |
Education | St. Columba's Catholic School |
Notable Works | "The Color Purple" (film), "Ghost" (film), "Sister Act" (film), "The View" (TV show) |
Net Worth | Estimated at $60 Million (as of recent estimates) |
Website/Reference | IMDB |
Whoopi Goldberg's life has been a tapestry woven with threads of family, ambition, and the unwavering spirit of a performer. Her upbringing, shaped by the guidance of a strong, single mother, instilled in her a resilience that would prove invaluable in navigating the often-turbulent waters of the entertainment industry. The influence of her mother, described as stern, wise, and strong, served as a foundational element, shaping the woman and artist she would become. Her early experiences, attending St. Columba's Catholic School, contributed to the formation of her character and outlook.
The family narrative begins with the migration of her forebears from Faceville, Georgia, a journey that underscores the importance of heritage and the enduring power of familial connections. It's a story that highlights the experiences of many African-American families and the hardships they have overcome, imbuing Whoopi's persona with a deep sense of empathy and understanding.
One of the most significant aspects of Whoopi Goldberg's personal life is her relationship with her children and grandchildren. Her daughter, Alexandrea Martin, born on May 9, 1973, to Whoopi and Alvin Martin, stands as a testament to the actress's role as a mother. The bond between them is well-documented, reflecting the values of family that have always been core to Whoopis identity.
Alexandrea, also a creative individual, has made her mark in the film industry as a producer, further solidifying the familys presence in the world of entertainment. The birth of Alexandrea's daughter, Amarah, in 1989, when Alexandrea was only 16, marked Whoopi Goldberg's entry into the role of grandmother, a role she has embraced with characteristic warmth and affection. There are details about Amarah's biological father that are not widely known, adding a layer of privacy to the family story.
The story of Alexander Martin Dean, often referred to as Alex, is also essential to the narrative. Born on October 9, 1973, Alex is the only child from Whoopis three marriages. While the details of Alex's life are kept relatively private, it is known that Whoopi has always spoken openly about her children and her relationship with them. It highlights the importance of family and the values she has instilled in her children.
Alex's life, while somewhat shielded from the public eye, is no less significant. His achievements, interests, and the values instilled in him by his famous mother paint a picture of a well-rounded individual. Whoopi Goldberg's commitment to motherhood has clearly shaped her children's paths, instilling in them a sense of responsibility, creativity, and the importance of family.
Scott Goldberg is another member of the family, born in 1975. He is an actor. Goldberg has also expressed the importance of her children and the relationship she shares with them, as well as her grandchild. The familys presence in the entertainment industry ensures they are always in the spotlight.
Whoopi Goldberg's career is nothing short of phenomenal. From her early days in stand-up comedy to her breakout role in "The Color Purple," she has consistently captivated audiences with her wit, her intelligence, and her undeniable talent. Her work as a comedian, author, and television personality has further cemented her place in the entertainment industry.
Her list of accolades is extensive. The EGOT status is a testament to her versatility and her ability to excel in multiple facets of the entertainment world. To win an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony Award is a feat few have accomplished, signifying her talent and enduring legacy.
Beyond the awards and accolades, Whoopi Goldberg's impact extends to her work as a television personality. Her role on the daytime talk show "The View" has brought her into the homes of millions, allowing her to engage in insightful discussions on current events, social issues, and pop culture. Her ability to connect with the audience, sharing her opinions and perspectives, has made her a household name.
The challenges and controversies she has faced, including those related to social issues and her personal life, have not diminished her influence. The ability to navigate these complex topics with honesty, empathy, and humor has further solidified her connection with her audience.
The evolution of Whoopi Goldbergs career is a story of adaptation, resilience, and the enduring power of artistic expression. Her roles in films like "Ghost" and "Sister Act" have showcased her versatility, while her work on "The View" has given her a platform to engage with audiences on a more personal level. As of 2019, she was 63 years old, and has been nominated for 13 Emmy awards, winning two.
Her influence is also evident in the way she has approached her personal life. She has been married three times and has always spoken candidly about her relationships, her children, and her family. It's this openness and honesty that has endeared her to audiences and allowed her to connect with people on a deeper level. Her ability to be vulnerable while still maintaining her strength and wit is a testament to her character.
Whoopi Goldberg has not always been without controversy. A recent incident involving comments made by the ladies of "The View" and criticism from social media users reminds us of the constant scrutiny that comes with being in the public eye. The incident showcases the pressures of the entertainment industry and the constant demand for social commentary. Despite facing challenges, Goldberg has consistently remained true to her values and her vision.
Whoopi Goldbergs early life and career were also greatly affected by the civil rights movement. Her more recent forebears migrated north from Faceville, Georgia, highlighting the influence of the Great Migration on her family's history. In her early years, she attended St. Columba's Catholic School.
The world has seen Whoopi Goldberg grow up and has been a witness to her three marriages. Her first marriage at 17 to Alvin Martin in 1973 brought the birth of Alexandrea Martin. In 1979, the couple divorced. The actress then remained single before meeting cinematographer David Claessen in 1985, and later married him in 1986. The marriage ended in divorce in 1988, and in 1994, she married Lyle Trachtenberg, whom she divorced in 1995. Her relationships have often been subject to public scrutiny, reflecting the complexities of life in the public eye.
Through her career and personal life, Whoopi Goldberg has consistently challenged norms and broken barriers. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, fight for equality, and encourage dialogue on important issues. Her voice, often outspoken and unafraid to speak her mind, has made her a powerful force in the entertainment world.
Her contributions to the entertainment industry are undeniable, and her ability to connect with audiences on a personal level has made her a true icon. Whether on stage, on screen, or on television, Whoopi Goldberg continues to inspire, entertain, and challenge us to think more deeply about the world around us.
The legacy of Whoopi Goldberg is one of art, family, and a relentless pursuit of self-expression. As she continues to evolve and grow, her impact on the world of entertainment and the lives of those around her will undoubtedly endure.

