Full Breakdown
Whoopi Goldberg Addresses Epstein Files Controversy
2/18/2026, 12:04:41 AM
Whoopi Goldberg's Clarification on Epstein Connection
During a recent episode of "The View," co-host Whoopi Goldberg addressed her name's appearance in documents related to the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Goldberg stated that she was “getting dragged” by critics who misinterpret her connection to Epstein. She explained that her name was mentioned in an email from May 2013, which discussed a request for a private jet to transport her to Monaco for a charity event hosted by Julian Lennon’s White Feather Foundation. The email, which she shared on air, indicated that Epstein declined the request, stating, “No thanks.”
Context of the Controversy
Goldberg's comments came after the Department of Justice released extensive documents that included numerous high-profile names, leading to speculation and scrutiny. She emphasized that her inclusion in these documents does not imply any personal relationship with Epstein, asserting, “I wasn’t his girlfriend, I wasn’t his friend.” Co-host Joy Behar noted that many names, including those of deceased celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, appear in the files due to their connections with Epstein's social circles.
Defense Against Criticism
Goldberg defended herself against the backlash, arguing that the public should rely on facts before making assumptions. She remarked, “You used to have to have facts before you said stuff,” and pointed out that her age—70—made her “too old” for Epstein's interests, as co-host Sara Haines humorously suggested. Goldberg expressed frustration over the perception that she had a closer relationship with Epstein, stating, “People actually believe that I was with him. It’s like, honey, come on.”
Broader Implications
The discussion on "The View" highlighted the complexities surrounding the release of Epstein's documents, which included names of various celebrities and public figures. Haines noted that many individuals listed were simply part of the broader network of wealthy and famous people who often cross paths in professional and social contexts. Goldberg's situation reflects a larger issue of public scrutiny faced by individuals whose names appear in high-profile investigations, regardless of their actual involvement.
Official Statements & Responses
Goldberg reiterated her stance during the broadcast, emphasizing her lack of involvement with Epstein and the misinterpretations surrounding her name's appearance in the documents. She stated, “I can’t speak to [Trump], but I’m speaking about me because I’m getting dragged.” This comment was in reference to President Donald Trump, who is also mentioned multiple times in the Epstein files.
Verbatim Quotes
- “In the name of transparency, my name is in the files. Yes!” — Whoopi Goldberg, Co-host of "The View."
- “I wasn’t his girlfriend, I wasn’t his friend.” — Whoopi Goldberg
- “People actually believe that I was with him. It’s like, honey, come on. Every man that I’ve ever been with, you’ve known about him because either the Inquirer wrote about it. People write about this stuff,” — Whoopi Goldberg
- “I was not only too old, but it was at a time, you know, where this was just not– You used to have to have facts before you said stuff.” — Whoopi Goldberg
- “So in other words, anybody can be on this list?” — Joy Behar, Co-host of "The View."
Goldberg's remarks aim to clarify her position and address the misconceptions surrounding her name's association with Epstein, emphasizing the importance of factual discourse in public discussions.
