At the 97th Academy Awards held on March 2, 2025, Whoopi Goldberg made a memorable return to the Oscars stage after nearly a decade. The 69-year-old actress and television host attended the event as a presenter, captivating attendees and viewers alike with her striking fashion choice and notable appearances throughout the evening.
A Dazzling Entrance in Christian Siriano
Goldberg graced the red carpet in a custom-designed gown by renowned designer Christian Siriano. The deep blue metallic dress featured a draped boatneck that subtly revealed her collarbones, a fitted waist that highlighted her silhouette, and a voluminous, full princess-style skirt that flowed gracefully as she moved. Siriano described the gown as “liquid water,” capturing its fluid and shimmering quality. This ensemble marked a departure from Goldberg’s usual attire, showcasing her versatility and willingness to embrace bold fashion statements. Complementing her gown, Goldberg opted for understated yet elegant accessories, including diamond-encrusted stud earrings and a matching chain. Her makeup featured a deep purple lipstick, eyeliner, and a touch of bronzy blush, enhancing her natural beauty without overshadowing her ensemble.
Revealing a Hidden Tattoo
The off-the-shoulder design of Goldberg’s gown offered a rare glimpse of her shoulder tattoo—a colorful dragon that wraps around her right shoulder. Typically concealed by her more conservative clothing choices, this tattoo became a focal point of interest and admiration among fans and media outlets. The revelation added an unexpected and personal touch to her red carpet appearance, sparking conversations about her bold style choices.
A Heartwarming ‘Ghost’ Reunion
One of the evening’s highlights was Goldberg’s reunion with actress Demi Moore on the red carpet. The two stars shared a warm embrace and posed for photographs, rekindling memories of their collaboration in the 1990 film “Ghost.” In the movie, Goldberg portrayed Oda Mae Brown, a psychic medium who assists Moore’s character, Molly Jensen, in communicating with her deceased lover, played by Patrick Swayze. The film was a critical and commercial success, earning Goldberg an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Their reunion at the Oscars, 35 years after the film’s release, delighted fans and industry peers alike. Moore, nominated for Best Actress for her role in “The Substance,” expressed her admiration for Goldberg’s timeless elegance and their enduring friendship.
A Special Bond with Cynthia Erivo
Goldberg also shared a touching moment on the red carpet with actress and singer Cynthia Erivo. The two held hands throughout their interview with ABC’s George Pennacchio, reflecting their unique connection. Both have portrayed the character Celie in adaptations of “The Color Purple”—Goldberg in the 1985 film and Erivo in the 2015 Broadway revival. Their bond exemplifies mutual respect and admiration, transcending generations in the entertainment industry.
Attending with Daughter Alex Martin
In a touching nod to family, Goldberg attended the Oscars with her daughter, Alex Martin. This appearance mirrored their attendance at the 1991 Academy Awards, where Goldberg won Best Supporting Actress for “Ghost.” The mother-daughter duo’s close relationship has been well-documented over the years, with Goldberg often referring to Martin as her best friend. Their presence together at the event highlighted the enduring bond they share and added a sentimental touch to the evening.
Embracing Fashion Beyond the Oscars
Beyond the Oscars, Goldberg has been making waves in the fashion industry. She recently fronted the Fall/Winter 2024 campaign for Parisian brand AMI, showcasing a series of stylish looks that highlight her versatility and timeless appeal. Photographed in New York City by Rahim Fortune, Goldberg posed in various black-and-white portraits, exuding confidence and charisma. One standout image features her in a striped suit, flashing a contagious smile that captures her vibrant personality.
Her collaboration with AMI reflects her willingness to explore new fashion avenues and challenge traditional norms associated with age and style. Goldberg’s involvement in the campaign has been met with widespread acclaim, further cementing her status as a fashion icon.
Reflecting on Past Fashion Choices
Goldberg’s recent fashion endeavors also prompted reflections on her past sartorial choices. In an interview at the Fashion Group International Night of Stars gala, she discussed the backlash she faced for her 1993 Oscars outfit—a lime green and purple jumpsuit inspired by Lucille Ball’s character on “I Love Lucy.” The criticism she received at the time led her to shy away from dressing up for years. However, Goldberg expressed that she would “absolutely” wear the outfit again, embracing her unique style and individuality.
Conclusion
Whoopi Goldberg’s appearance at the 2025 Oscars was a testament to her enduring influence in the entertainment and fashion industries. From her stunning Christian Siriano gown that showcased her rarely-seen tattoo to heartwarming reunions with longtime friends and co-stars, Goldberg’s presence at the event was both impactful and inspiring. Her willingness to embrace bold fashion choices and reflect on her personal journey underscores her status as a trailblazer who continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
