Whoopi Goldberg Says ‘American Idol’ Started the ‘Downfall of Society’
Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue Reading Time: 2 minutes
Whoopi Goldberg had some pretty harsh things to say about American Idol on The View earlier this week. The co-host slammed the competition show as sparking “the downfall of society.” Things got awkward when a producer reminded her that Idol airs on ABC.
Whoopi Goldberg Slams American Idol on The View
“I think that we as a society love to watch stuff to judge folks,” Goldberg said. “You know, I’ve always thought that the beginning of the downfall of society was with… what’s the name of that show?”
A producer off screen told Goldberg that she was thinking of “ABC’s American Idol.” (The View also airs on ABC.) The co-host pointed out that “it was not always on ABC” and began on “another network.” (Idol premiered on FOX in 2002.)
“Once we gave people the ability to judge other people, I think we ran amok with it. And it’s gone out of control,” Goldberg continued. “They invited the public to decide who that person was, and I feel once we did that, it began us in a cycle which we have not…”
Goldberg trailed off as her producer reminded her that she’s said the show has “gotten better now.” That sparked some backtracking from Goldberg, as she said it’s “a very different show” since moving to ABC. She also said that “ABC knows that I feel like this,” adding that it has “nothing to do with them.”
SEE ALSO: DOES KATY PERRY REALLY WANT TO QUIT ‘AMERICAN IDOL’?
It’s Not the First Time Goldberg Has Talked About the Show
Goldberg previously had something to say about American Idol after contestant Sara Beth Liebe quit the show this season. The mom of three dropped out during Hollywood Week so she could go home to her kids. Judge Katy Perry had caused backlash for her comments about Liebe during auditions.
“People have to make decisions, and you made the decision that was right for you,” Goldberg said at the time. “And with that voice, that will not be your only time. And you’re young enough to come back and do it again.”
What do you think of Goldberg’s recent comments about American Idol? Has the show really changed since it moved to ABC? Is it really responsible for “the downfall of society”? Let us know in the comments below.
