Whoopi Goldberg, the renowned Oscar-winning actress known for her role in the original film adaptation of The Color Purple, has recently launched a scathing attack on Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex.
The reason behind Goldberg’s outrage stems from Markle being cast as Shug Avery, the glamorous and confident singer who becomes Celie’s friend and lover, in the upcoming remake of the classic musical.
Goldberg, who portrayed the abused and oppressed protagonist Celie in the original movie, reportedly expressed her discontent to Steven Spielberg, the director and producer of both versions.
She demanded that Markle’s casting be revoked, claiming that she was unfit for the role.
According to sources, Goldberg felt that Markle’s involvement in The Color Purple was an insult to her own legacy and that of Alice Walker, the novel’s author.
The source revealed Goldberg’s strong belief that Markle lacked the necessary talent and experience to portray such a complex and iconic character.
Furthermore, she accused Markle of using the film as a means to boost her fame and fortune, without showing proper respect for the story’s history and message.
Goldberg didn’t stop there; she also accused Markle of being a hypocrite and a liar.
She pointed to Markle’s controversial interview with Oprah Winfrey earlier this year, where she made allegations of racism and mistreatment within the royal family.
Goldberg claimed that Markle had betrayed both the black community and the royal family, manipulating the situation to gain sympathy and attention.
According to the source, Goldberg firmly stated that Markle had lied about her experiences in the royal family, exaggerating and distorting the truth to present herself in a favorable light.
She argued that Markle had no real understanding of what it truly meant to be a black woman in America, accusing her of exploiting the struggles and suffering endured by those who had lived through slavery and segregation.
Goldberg emphasized that Markle had no right to be a part of The Color Purple, a story that embodies resilience and empowerment for black women.
The actress’s sentiments were unexpected and hurtful to Spielberg, who expressed his deep respect and admiration for Goldberg.
He acknowledged her significant contribution to the original film and explained that he had chosen Markle for the role of Shug Avery due to her charisma and presence, wanting to provide her with an opportunity to showcase her acting skills.
Spielberg clarified that his intention was never to disrespect or replace Goldberg but rather to honor and celebrate her legacy.
He hoped that she would understand and support his vision for the remake, expressing his desire to involve her in some capacity.
On the other hand, Markle was overjoyed when Spielberg offered her the role of Shug Avery.
She considered it a dream come true and expressed her lifelong admiration for The Color Purple.
Markle also professed her immense fandom for Goldberg, expressing her eagerness to meet her and learn from her.
She eagerly anticipated the start of filming, determined to do justice to the role and the profound story it tells.
The Color Purple remake is scheduled to begin filming next year, with a release date set for 2025.
Alongside Markle, the cast includes Jennifer Hudson as Sophia, Cynthia Erivo as Celie, and Leslie Odom Jr as Mr.