During a recent episode of “The View,” Debbie Allen shared a heartfelt story about the HIV/AIDS epidemic and her collaboration with Whoopi Goldberg on “A Different World.” According to Allen, Goldberg played a crucial role in opening the door to acceptance and dialogue surrounding the disease on the show.
In an episode titled “If I Should Die Before I Wake,” Goldberg portrayed a professor who tasked her class with eulogizing themselves. When a student revealed she had HIV, Goldberg’s character stepped forward to offer support and guidance, ultimately paving the way for important discussions about HIV/AIDS on network television.
Goldberg’s commitment to socially relevant projects has been a hallmark of her career. She played a vital role in revitalizing “A Different World” during its second season, helping make it a cultural phenomenon. In 1991, Goldberg won an Academy Award for her performance in “Ghost,” further cementing her reputation as an influential advocate and actress.
Allen praised Goldberg’s willingness to participate in meaningful projects, noting that she always says “yes” whenever she is asked to be part of something impactful. The two women have formed a strong bond over their shared commitment to raising important social and cultural issues through their work, which was evident during the emotional reunion on “The View.”