About 30 minutes ago, the family of Alex Martin — the only daughter of veteran actress Whoopi Goldberg — officially confirmed that Goldberg had left the United States to live in Italy. According to initial information, the Oscar-winning actress made the move four years ago, but the news has only now been publicly shared with the media and fans.

This comes as sad news to many long-time admirers of Whoopi Goldberg, a woman who became not only an icon in the American entertainment industry but also a powerful voice for social justice, human rights, and gender equality. Her withdrawal from American public life and her relocation to Europe have taken many by surprise and evoked deep feelings of nostalgia.

From a Hollywood Legend to a Peaceful Life in Italy

Whoopi Goldberg, born Caryn Elaine Johnson in 1955 in New York City, is renowned not only as an actress but also as a producer, author, and television host. Over a decades-long career, she has left a lasting legacy through iconic films like The Color Purple, Ghost, Sister Act, and the popular talk show The View.

Unlike many Hollywood stars who continue to maintain a high profile on screen or in the media, Whoopi Goldberg had gradually stepped away from the spotlight in recent years. According to family sources, she made the decision to move to Italy in 2021 in search of a quieter life, away from the pressure of American media and public scrutiny.

A close family member shared: “Whoopi has always loved Italy — its people, its culture, and its pace of life bring her a sense of peace. She’s not running away from anything; she’s simply seeking a place to slow down and enjoy the simpler things in life.”

Why Italy?

Goldberg has often expressed her deep affection for Italy in previous interviews. She loves Italian cuisine, is passionate about classical architecture, and admires the country’s long-standing artistic traditions. In particular, she once stated that “in Italy, people live to enjoy life — that’s very different from the fast-paced and stressful lifestyle of New York or Los Angeles.”

It is believed that Goldberg is now living in a peaceful countryside area near Florence — a region known for its scenic beauty, clean air, and thriving international artist community. She reportedly spends most of her time painting, writing, and tending to her small garden. This is a stark contrast to the vibrant, outspoken persona she embodied on American television, but those close to her say she is completely content with this new chapter of her life.

A Silence That Deserves Respect

What has shocked many is the fact that Whoopi Goldberg managed to keep her move a secret for four years. While the media continued to report on her appearances on The View, few realized she had not lived in the U.S. for quite some time. Her family, especially her daughter Alex Martin, chose to keep the matter private out of respect for Goldberg’s desire for solitude.

In a brief statement to the press today, Alex said: “My mother is healthy, safe, and happy. We appreciate everyone’s concern, but please respect her privacy.”

A Farewell — If Only in Geography

Although this may simply be a geographical change, Whoopi Goldberg’s departure from the U.S. feels, for many, like saying goodbye to a part of Hollywood — the part that stood for humanity, intelligence, and boldness in the face of injustice.

Whoopi Goldberg has left an indelible mark on audiences around the world. Her decision to live a more secluded life in a foreign land may be a loss for American media, but it is a well-earned reward for a woman who has given so much to art and society.

We hope that in the peaceful corners of Italy, Whoopi continues to find joy, creativity, and — most importantly — the serenity she has always longed for.