On a recent episode of The View, Whoopi Goldberg made a candid remark that resonated with audiences navigating economic challenges: “I work for a living!” The 69-year-old EGOT winner, reflecting on the pressures of providing for her family, revealed that, despite her decades of success, she remains firmly connected to the struggles of the working class. Her words sparked conversations about the realities of sustaining a lifestyle in the entertainment industry, even for household names.

Goldberg’s admission came during a broader discussion about the president-elect’s anticipated cabinet and the economic concerns shaping recent elections. While empathizing with voters’ frustrations, she cautioned against decision-making that prioritizes individual grievances at the expense of collective safety. “The thing that’s bothering everybody should not be the thing that puts 85% of other people in danger,” she noted, highlighting her belief in a balance between personal and societal needs.

The actress’s comments arrive amid a flurry of professional engagements, underscoring her enduring presence in the industry. This year alone, she’s been the face of Ami’s Fall/Winter ’24 campaign, preparing to star as Miss Hannigan in Annie at Madison Square Garden, and filming the highly anticipated Sister Act 3. Her work ethic, she suggests, is driven by the same responsibilities many families face: “My kid has to feed her family. My great-granddaughter has to be fed by her family.”

Goldberg’s reflections echo sentiments shared by other high-profile figures about the financial demands of their careers. In 2023, actress Taraji P. Henson went viral for detailing how taxes and team expenses significantly cut into her earnings. Henson emphasized that, despite public perceptions of celebrity wealth, maintaining a successful career often involves supporting a network of professionals who help make it possible.

As Goldberg continues to balance her career with family obligations, her remarks highlight a broader truth: the pressures of sustaining a livelihood don’t spare anyone, regardless of fame. Whether managing multimillion-dollar campaigns or preparing for Broadway-level performances, Goldberg’s perspective offers a glimpse into the realities of life behind the spotlight.