Whoopi Goldberg surprised The View audience during the Season 30 premiere by turning a planned giveaway for one person into a prize for everyone in attendance. The actress initially announced that only one audience member would receive a three-night stay at the Secrets and Dreams Playa Mujeres resorts in Cancun, Mexico. Instead, Goldberg revealed that the entire audience would receive the giveaway, prompting an emotional celebration in the studio.
Whoopi Goldberg recreated an Oprah Winfrey-esque giveaway moment
Near the end of the episode, Goldberg explained that The View would continue its tradition of giving back to its audience throughout the season. Sarah Haines added that the people in the studio were all “superfans” before announcing the vacation prize.
Goldberg then approached the show’s gold box to select the winner. After pulling a card from the box, she reacted with surprise before revealing that everyone in the room had won. The announcement sent the audience into loud cheers, with viewers in the studio reacting with tears and excitement.
Sunny Hostin then stepped in to provide more information about the vacation, while Goldberg sent the show to a commercial break and gave the audience time to take in the surprise. The giveaway also echoed a memorable moment involving Oprah Winfrey on The View in 2004. During that appearance, Winfrey surprised the audience by giving everyone free cars (via Entertainment Weekly).
The Season 30 premiere also marked a celebration of three decades of The View. Joy Behar additionally highlighted Goldberg’s milestone on the show. Goldberg has appeared during 28 of the program’s 30 seasons, making her the woman with the most seasons on The View.
