‘Why did y’all leave me?’: Whoopi Goldberg shares her grief story

Whoopi Goldberg lost her brother, Clyde, and her mother, Emma, five years apart in 2005 and 2010. She shared how, for her, grief can manifest as a sense of abandonment with CNN’s Anderson Cooper.
For more of “All There Is with Anderson Cooper” visit cnn.com/allthereisonline or follow the show wherever you get your podcasts. #cnn #andersoncooper #whoopigoldberg #grief #allthereis

[@maryjanechristie1061]

This interview helps me to understand why I still struggle with my Mother’s passing.Still learning how to live without her 13 years later at 61. I lost my father at the age of 6.My mother was my world. Thank you both ❤

[@peachesandpoets]

The loss is indescribable. So don't bother. Write what you remember. Whatever it is. Her story matters and you can do it.

[@reneemiddleton7333]

I promise, I understand your struggle!!

[@gentlwords]

Hello Mary Jane Christie... I truly UNDERSTAND your emptiness... It has been 12yrs for me that I lost my heart, my hero - My Precious Mother ... and I will NEVER be the same

[@marcelacecil3036]

Thank you for this, I too lost my family when I was 10. My world fell apart, my parents disappeared and no one told me anything. I hope children are more respected now. Again, thank you

[@singermusician777]

I pray that all you've been through you're living a happy life. People are so quick to judge. Even if you've experienced or not. I pray people are understanding and loving to those who they cross in the path of their lives as you never know the impact you can have. Status in one's life doesn't matter. Be thankful Whomever comes into your life for hood and consider it a blessing. All family ain't blood and all blood ain't family.

[@debr628]

I'm 65, lost my mom 12 years ago and my dad almost 7 years ago. not a day that goes by that they are not in my thoughts and I miss them so. "What is grief but love with nowhere to go" ... thank you both for opening up and sharing ...

[@carolynturk-hu7je]

My heart goes out to both Whoopi and Anderson! The heart loves and misses!❤️

[@GenevaParker-te7pr]

GREAT SHOW 😢 GREAT LESSONS, THANK YOU 😂 GP

[@lynnettebroussard2839]

As I walked through the graveyard one day, I saw a grave that was crumbling. The headstone was almost falling in. It was very old with dates into the 1800’s. That day, is when I realized that you are only around for your life, and then in the hearts of your kids, grandkids and maybe some great grandkids. And in the lifetime of them. And then you are forgotten. Just like that person in that grave.

[@LaurieHuntsinger]

Thank you for the touching conversation. I have been fortunate to still have one brother. It is just the two of us and we treasure that.

[@carolynwoolman3068]

I have watched Anderson’s documentary with his mother and every now and then I rewatch it again. His mother was such an amazing woman and had so many aspects to who she was. It was so worth the watch.

[@denagetz9894]

Thank you Anderson & Whoopi, my heart really needed to hear this tonight. “Why did you leave me” really hit home ❤

[@lahlah-d7q]

Oh my goodness. Lost my mom August 8, 2008. The time leading to her death, oddly, were our best time as mother and daughter. And we left nothing unsaid.but I still miss her every single day. My dad is still with us and is 85. He has 3 wishes- 1. to see the white sand beaches of Florida. To visit Disney word. But his mobility will probably prevent that from happening. 3. Getting to see the Changing of the guards at the tomb of the unknown soldier. My dad is a Marine! No commission…but one hell of a private!! I did get the opportunity to ask both my mom and dad what they were most proud of accomplishing through their lives. My mom told me she is most proud of making sure that all five of Kids 2 girls and 3 boys…are ALL WONDERFUL COOKS!! My dads proudest moment was ..being a Marine!!! They were wonderful parents and forged a lot of strength into us and taught us the love of family! Daddy is still with us but seems to disappear a little day by day.I know when he goes I will have lost a part of my heart that will never be replaced.but I try to enjoy and appreciate him every day ❤❤ great interview y’all!! ❤️❤️ to you both!❤❤ 1:30

[@emilerose1424]

Thanks for the lovely story about your parents. They would smile at both your memories of them and the fact that you took the loving time to write the memories down for strangers.

[@nicoleodigie7218]

This was a beautiful conversation ❤

[@l.k.1111]

She is a legend, her movies in the 80s and 90s were break through cross divide and wholesome. Mixed cast mostly and respected. She is amazing.

[@susanwilliams6710]

And Whoopi made two films with Maggie Smith! I’ll bet they had a good time.

[@l.k.1111]

@@susanwilliams6710 Yes!🤩

[@maureenb7399]

This interview is beautiful. You both will help a lot of us who are dealing with similar grief. Bless you both.

[@markeiawilkins5289]

Two of my favorites Anderson & Whoopi, oh how I love y'all! ❤

[@BoomerGirl1951]

Lost Dad, Mom & then my brother & I felt like an orphan. I will always miss them in this life & focus on the future when I will see them again. Right now it is my duty to keep moving forward after losing my husband. 😢 I believe they are still with me in spirt & remind them I love & miss them. ☺️

[@brendad585]

Being the only one left! Wow! Thank you for having this talk. You both did it well.❤ Learning to live with the void is not easy.

[@bizbit34]

I send/say just the words "I love you" and for a little while I'll send simply a heart in a text or I love you again. I don’t want them to feel like they need to answer me, I want them to know that I'm there if they need me. It's amazed me how many people have told me how much that meant to them, many said more than anything else through that time. Loved hearing both of you, it's a privilege to have you both be so open for all of us. Thank you!!! Beautiful, both of you!!!

[@krnstc]

These two made me cry - Anderson always does but now Whoopi too

[@lillyarias8090]

Two very cool people having a very nice conversation! Awesome ❤

[@ryncricket2001]

This speaks to me so deeply right now. This is what’s happening me in my 50’s. I appreciate these two amazing minds and voices helping me through this.

[@1111ScorpQueen]

I love this woman💜

[@susanwilliams6710]

This is a terrific exchange. Whoopi is a WOW. I love her to bits. And I miss Gloria Vanderbilt too. Anderson Cooper demonstrated a wonderful relationship with his mother. They were very blessed to have each other. And I’m so happy he’s a daddy!

[@MelissaCooksey-w3w]

One thing that helps me is I have two childhood friends. We knew each others parents and share many happy funny stories. Sometimes we remember something one of us forgot. There is no wrong way to grieve. I lost a grandson at eight months.

[@LisaRossosu]

Just Beautiful. Thank you.

[@mariaw829]

Love it, I feel your despair. As I have those difficulties

[@dr.julietfarrell8849]

Thank you for sharing❤❤

[@beenice9867]

Anderson, we have similar stories and so when you cry, I cry for the 10 year old in you and the 12 year old in me. I get it. Thanks for making me feel normal.

[@Riclmnopp]

Might want to word that a little differently. 😂

[@Hautehead13]

😮😂

[@kelleylegault5115]

@Benice9867- I’m sorry… Unfortunately, you’re ‘be nice’ message is completely wasted on this bunch- I wish you healing, with light and love in your *real* life. I believe ‘nice’ will prevail again, if only we’re patient enough.

[@beatrizmejia2890]

I have followed All There Is from the beginning. It has helped me to see my grief differently and to respect another’s grief better. This interview in particular answers the question of why we go on - to finish what we are meant to do.

[@RebekahCurielAlessi]

That was beautiful.

[@kimsold22]

What a sweet interview. 😇

[@grammasworld]

Gorgeous. And a comfort to know that two people I admire so highly also find it preferable at times to choose alone-ness.

[@Riclmnopp]

This feels like watching an AA meeting for people suffering from TDS.

[@RealmCenter40]

TDS is why the video game industry is about to crash again or so I hear. Make that one make sense 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@Hautehead13]

TRUMP 2024

[@spacecase382]

lol, their all cry babies

[@kelleylegault5115]

Rock-trolls. What the heck are you guys doing here, where people have real feelings? I’m sure some rally somewhere is taking attendance, and missing you - waiting to sell you a Bible, or a pair of golden sneakers. pppfffftttt

[@sharonmac2017]

🥰 we love you Anderson XOXO

[@tamarasheppard933]

Wow powerful connection and share

[@TreborTechnicalSolutions]

Wow! Thank you both!

[@lewisbeshers1946]

Wonderful insights from both of them.

[@Sharibaby80]

This resonated with me so much. Thank you Whoopi and Anderson ❤‍🩹

[@teresamcdaniel3554]

What an amazing conversation. Makes me love them both even more.

[@singermusician777]

Always have loved whoopi Golberg! Love her genuineness. We share same birthday❤

[@pewterpirate4560]

Thank God there's still some remnants of empathetic, intelligent conversation. Never knew this about Whoopi. I thought i grew up hard, until now.

[@DRS-TOOLS]

WOW awesome

[@Barnaby2023]

Thank you both

[@DebbieCostello-k8p]

Whoopi my respect grows more after this conversation with Anderson I lost my mom when I was to young, I watch the view because, you been grounding me for years, I I’m what I learned from you and other people, thank you beautiful lady you mom is in you and you brother always with both of you

[@Rebel_AF]

This is one of the most beautiful episodes. Thank you so much for producing these. 🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️

[@cetGT3]

“Sister act” ❤️❤️❤️

[@HelenPerez-z8t]

❤ Whoopi

[@Jenger69]

Thank you. This was perfect for me. I lost both best friends last year and I am struggling.

[@7thsealangelAnandana]

Beautiful

[@randibgood]

Never would have thought I had so much in common with Whoopi and Anderson.

[@Lauren-z9g]

I hear you both. I ask myself the same.. why did my husband leave me? 3 years..2 double lung transplants.. Today is our 36 year anniversary and he is not here.. my dad.. is hospitalized today..with heart failure.. on my anniversary of my wedding and he.. is 99. The men I love are leaving me and I’m alone. Mom died when I was 17. I promise you.. grief is hard and comes and goes at a moments notice. Can I tell you about my Jesus who rescued me today from myself. He says..” I love you unconditionally “ I’m Never leaving you. Believe in me.. You don’t have to do anything. I did it on the cross and am waiting to bring you home.

[@Lauren-z9g]

I hear you both. I ask myself the same.. why did my husband leave me? 3 years..2 double lung transplants.. Today is our 36 year anniversary and he is not here.. my dad.. is hospitalized today..with heart failure.. on my anniversary of my wedding and he.. is 99. The men I love are leaving me and I’m alone. Mom died when I was 17. I promise you.. grief is hard and comes and goes at a moments notice. Can I tell you about my Jesus who rescued me today from myself. He says..” I love you unconditionally “ I’m Never leaving you. Believe in me.. You don’t have to do anything. I did it on the cross and am waiting to bring you home. Just believe and I’ll bring you through.

[@bintadiallo5380]

We love you Whoopy and Anderson❤️

[@deebadalucco7437]

Love you both 💓

[@HoodMayorNyc]

Anderson is cool too.

[@bernk2796]

Thank you to you both! ❤❤ you guys! “ Why did you leave me “ “because we still have stuff to do “. Changed my whole outlook to move forward!! ❤❤

[@antonyroccoparis]

I needed this talk. Wish it went on for longer.

[@Jeromemayle]

CNN trying to do podcasts like their Joe Rogan. Quit telling lies and people will watch.

[@trinijoyl1720]

I know exactly how they both feel. Shes so right ab everything. Death is real!! My mom is gone 2yrs after my brother is gone my father is 88yrs. I hv prepared my mind to live in this big 5 bedrooms house. I lost my sister 18yrs ago! I miss her all the time. I deal wit sadness day to day. I hv to be intentional ab being happy. I hv to force my mind to move forward!

[@christinestephens37]

Yes, back then the adults never talked to children about important things. Even if we knew or figured things out on our own. We still needed adults to just explain things and let us ask questions.

[@Mkebrowser]

Refreshing to hear such an honest talk. And showing their vulnerability.

[@nicoleodigie7218]

Nasty bots are all up and through this thread

[@kimsold22]

It’s ridiculous these people poured their hearts out ❤

[@ErnestTeeBass]

​@@kimsold22Anderson Cooper belongs on a reputable channel but Whoopi has said way too many vile things over the years for anyone to have any compassion for her.

[@Riclmnopp]

@@nicoleodigie7218 “everyone who doesn’t think like me is a bot” let me guess…. Russian bots?

[@kimsold22]

@@ErnestTeeBass shes a scorpio let her be

[@brandonstephens8133]

I can relate

[@ricardonarbona5028]

I just came back from The breakfast club interview,and boyyyy the comments were not good for Kamala.

[@Fe302011]

Some people just don't like her and that's fine.

[@ricardonarbona5028]

@@Fe302011 That’s supposed to be a very Democrat leaning outlet.The fact that she’s getting bashed there just shows you were she stands.

[@wstcstskirmish]

And

[@NoreenQ-om8eh]

@@Fe302011not really lol

[@petworth]

that's because this is a racist country

[@miznikki2u]

Lovely convo!

[@ceceoo3]

God bless you both. I feel like if I knew Whoopi we would be such good friends. And she's the only one on The View who I agree with every single time.

[@1952EL]

I resonate with that 😢

[@lindaanderegg7920]

Oh what a treat❤

[@drc1989]

They don't leave. They move on to a different existence. Death doesn't exist. We all move on. Each day is a blessing and can be lived as a blessing.✌️😁❤️👍

[@soylentgreen9492]

No grief. Entitled celebrities I owe no allegiance to.

[@barbgardiner5719]

We left you, because your KAREN!!!

[@unorthodox5307]

As a black/democrat, everything we say is Trump bad Trump bad. We used to be a party for good. Now if we say something positive, someone in the comment quickly respond with anger....please stop.

[@BarneyHefner]

Whoopi is the missing link.

[@Hautehead13]

I hope not.

[@kelleylegault5115]

And… you might be the ‘weakest’ link… certainly an azzhat.

[@Christian-di8zu]

Question is why would she change her name to Whoopi Goldberg ?

[@1111ScorpQueen]

It was an inside joke amongst her and her mother about a whoopi pie.. and she attached her last name to it.

[@Christian-di8zu]

@@1111ScorpQueen Ya, a Jewish last name. Never heard of a whoopi pie.

[@carolynturk-hu7je]

Entertainers have stage names. Pink is not the singers real name either!

[@Christian-di8zu]

@@carolynturk-hu7je I understand using a stage name. But the one she chose is funny to me.

[@blessedANDunimpressed]

@@Christian-di8zushe’s a comedian so glad it fits 🙄

[@oneseeker2]

2 hugely interesting chilled smart people.

[@lydapuleston9730]

Grief? I wonder if there is grief anywhere that could be covered?

[@leopoldo3279]

Hollywood Superstar Whoopi ⭐️

[@bradjones5107]

Don't respect her politics. All of the constant Trump hating is way over the top. Whoopi and Trump were friends once. What really happened? Whoopi's better friends with Hillary Clinton I suppose. With that said, I believe Whoopi performed the best performance of any actor I've witnessed and didn't even utter a single word in the movie, The Color Purple when Oprah Winfrey busted in on Whoopi and yelled, "Did you tell Harpo to beat me!?!". The look on Whoopi's face put me right in the room and I was floored. Then Oprah said it again! The intensity! Best performance and I've never experienced anything like that since.

[@kumarBLR6980]

Such a heartwarming tete a tete🎉

[@Jayzilla-jr4fr]

His mom was a multi-millionaire Vanderbilt with a dozen servants. Not the average American struggling to buy groceries.

[@ryncricket2001]

What does that have to do with grief?

[@jordanabeaulieu2530]

Exactly! So because he grew up in a wealthy family, he doesnt feel loss and devastation like other people?

[@Awardshq]

Is that not his mother? Especially considering he lost his father when he was very young and his brother to suicide when he was 21. Like wtf.

[@marshahinson6930]

💖💖💖

[@gonzaloventura924]

Good luck with the law sued y'all gonna need it

[@kelleylegault5115]

🙄🥱

[@QuantumOfSolace1]

Whoopi has lost her mind!

[@napoleonsmith7793]

Omg. CIA propaganda of crapola.

[@ComfortRoller]

What a privilege.

[@ComfortRoller]

15:07 im sorry, is there anything i can do for you?

[@tyreemathis]

COOPERs MOM reminded you of YOUR MOM???? Big difference..Bellevue,head in the OVEN, one TOOTH And your mom is the same as Andersons mom??? REALLY.

[@GiseleGisele-u7t]

OCTOBER 15 2024 Trump is mentally SICK. He is not fit to be PRESIDENT of the wonderful U.S.A. He wants to send the military for Senator Adam Schiff of California. Trump DANGEROUS😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢 😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢

[@ivanlaberge1193]

so bad you have to invite your own employees for interviews. 😂😂😂

[@gonzaloventura924]

Hope u have enough money 😂 but yet CNN keep spreading misinformation

[@commonsense3632]

Well Whoopi when you walk with the devil the devil will reward you just be honest. You hated them both!!!

[@geoffmcnew5863]

Gutfeld is #1 ...eat your heart out

[@brooks9978]

Whoopi Goldberg is just promoting her new book...who cares? What a joke...journalism?

[@gonzaloventura924]

Law sued on it way! 😂

[@mango-__-]

11:16 15:18 23:33

[@gonzaloventura924]

CNN GETTING SUED 😂 GOOD LUCK

[@SamKinason]

Cause you did black face with Ted

[@ErnestTeeBass]

Back off, libs are allowed to do that. Free speech belongs to them and ONLY them.

[@ErnestTeeBass]

Libs are allowed to do that

[@jirehchannel]

Trump hiring her 4 times regardless of her attitude only shows his good character. This lady clearly is ungrateful.

[@BarneyHefner]

Hey Whoopi: Your mom and brother are the lucky relatives. The alive ones have to watch you consistently make a fool of yourself.

[@ceeIoc]

She is sooooooo annoying

[@PoorChoiceOfWords1224]

Anderson Cooper, I shared my grief story and you ignored me.

[@RonaldWuerch]

Whoopi needs HELP.🤣🤣🤣