Whoopi Goldberg has publicly addressed why her name appears in newly released documents connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The veteran actress and TV host is rejecting online speculation that she had any personal relationship with him.
Speaking on Tuesday’s episode of The View, the 70-year-old said her inclusion in the files stemmed solely from a declined travel request.
“In the name of transparency, my name is in the files, yes,” Goldberg told viewers, before reading from a May 2013 email contained in the documents.
According to Goldberg, the email referenced a request for a private jet to transport her to Monaco for a charity event organized by Julian Lennon. The message asked whether Epstein would be willing to provide his aircraft. She said Epstein replied simply: “no thanks.”
Rejecting Speculation
Goldberg stressed that the exchange represented the extent of any connection.
“I wasn’t his girlfriend, I wasn’t his friend,” she said, adding that misinformation online had falsely portrayed her as being associated with Epstein.
Co-host Joy Behar noted during the discussion that many individuals have appeared in the files, sometimes due to incidental or administrative references.
Goldberg said the situation demonstrates how easily names can appear in records without implying wrongdoing.
“This is my point,” she said. “You used to have to have facts before you said stuff.”
Fear of Flying Also a Factor
Goldberg also pointed out she never boarded Epstein’s plane, referencing her long-documented fear of flying, which lasted for decades after she witnessed a mid-air collision in 1978. She later overcame the phobia through therapy and medication.
Broader Context of the Files
The recently released records include hundreds of high-profile figures mentioned in various contexts, ranging from contacts and social circles to unrelated administrative references.
Among those named in historical records are cultural icons such as Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe, though mentions do not necessarily indicate involvement in Epstein’s crimes.
During the discussion, Goldberg declined to comment on other individuals whose names have surfaced, including Donald Trump, saying she was focused on clarifying her own situation.
Epstein Case Background
Epstein, who pleaded guilty in 2005 to procuring a minor for prostitution, was arrested again in July 2019 on federal charges of sex trafficking and conspiracy involving minors.
He died in a New York jail cell before his case went to trial.
Calls continue from victims’ advocates and public figures — including hosts of The View — for the full release of remaining records in the interest of transparency and justice.
