A Career-Changing Performance: Whoopi Goldberg in 'Ghost'

Before she became a household name, Whoopi Goldberg was already making waves in Hollywood. But it was her unforgettable role in the 1990 blockbuster Ghost that truly solidified her status as a Hollywood icon and completely transformed her career. Just five years after being nominated for Best Actress at the Academy Awards for her role in The Color Purple, Whoopi once again reached new heights with her portrayal of Oda Mae Brown, a self-proclaimed psychic who fakes her ability to communicate with the dead. This role not only showcased her comedic and dramatic range but also brought her into the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Interestingly, Whoopi might not have been cast if it weren’t for her co-star Patrick Swayze. The legendary actor was so determined to work with her that he threatened to leave the project unless Whoopi was hired. Imagine that—Patrick Swayze standing up for Whoopi like that! That’s how much he believed in her talent, and it paid off in a big way.

Patrick Swayze’s Unwavering Support

Whoopi shared this incredible story during an appearance on ITV’s Loose Women. She revealed how Patrick Swayze played a pivotal role in getting her the part. “Patrick got hired to do ‘Ghost’ and he asked the producers, ‘Why hasn’t Whoopi Goldberg been considered? Have you even talked to her?’” she recalled. “They said no, they hadn’t approached her. Patrick wasn’t having it. He insisted, ‘I’m not committing to this until I speak to her and see if she wants to do this movie.’”

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Whoopi Goldberg Patrick Swayze — S Karin Epstein/Paramount/Kobal/Shutterstock

When the day finally came, Whoopi met Patrick, and the rest is history. “He said to me, ‘Why don’t you want to do this movie?’ And I replied, ‘Wait, aren’t you Patrick Swayze?’ He confirmed it, and I said, ‘What makes you think I don’t want to do the movie? They told me they didn’t want me!’” she laughed. Patrick stood firm, declaring, “If you’re not going to hire her, I’m not doing this film.” And that’s how Whoopi landed the role that would eventually earn her an Oscar nomination.

Reflecting on the experience, Whoopi admitted, “We had so much fun on set. Patrick was a true professional, and we created something really special together.”