Whoopi Goldberg Addresses Epstein Files Directly

Whoopi Goldberg has directly addressed her name appearing in the recently unsealed Jeffrey Epstein files, aiming to preemptively counter speculation. During a broadcast on February 17, 2026, Goldberg confirmed her name was present in the documents, clarifying that the mention related to a request for a plane to travel to Monaco. She explicitly denied any close association, stating firmly, "I wasn't his girlfriend. I wasn't his friend." Goldberg further explained that she never accepted the offer to use a private plane due to her fear of flying. Her co-hosts, including Sara Haines, supported her by noting that celebrity names can be listed in such files for many reasons, including professional or social circles, and not always indicative of deep involvement. Haines also commented on the importance of seeking accountability for those who had significant relationships with Epstein and may have enabled his actions. Epstein was arrested in July 2019 on federal sex trafficking charges and died in jail in 2019 before his trial, with his death ruled a suicide.