In a sobering announcement that has sent ripples across the United States, iconic actress and co-host of The View, Whoopi Goldberg, alongside celebrated soccer superstar Megan Rapinoe, have publicly declared their intentions to leave America. The overwhelming sentiment fueling this unprecedented decision, as stated by both figures, is a profound and accumulating sense of feeling disrespected and unappreciated in their home country.

While many significant celebrity decisions often emerge from hushed boardroom meetings or formal gatherings, this particular announcement found its unexpected genesis in a seemingly ordinary brunch at Los Angeles’ renowned ‘Eggs-travagance’ bistro. As both prominent figures sat down, little did the other patrons realize that this casual meeting would quickly spiral into a national conversation on the nature of respect, the intensity of public scrutiny, and the immense emotional toll such pressures can exact.

Goldberg, whose illustrious career spans decades across film, television, and Broadway, has navigated her fair share of controversies, often stemming from her unabashed and often polarizing opinions expressed on The View. Rapinoe, on the other hand, recently found herself at the receiving end of extensive public critique following a crucial missed penalty kick, an error that many fans found difficult to forgive, particularly given her previous outspoken stance on various social and political issues.

During their brunch, the two shared and empathized with their individual experiences of intense public judgment and backlash. They reportedly realized that their personal struggles were symptomatic of a broader, more pervasive issue within American public discourse. “Is it always going to be this way?” mused Rapinoe, according to sources close to the pair, reflecting on the relentless scrutiny. “Will one mistake, one opinion, overshadow everything else we’ve achieved?”

While it is not entirely uncommon for public figures to voice their discontent or even jest about leaving the country, this particular declaration seemed markedly different. By the end of their brunch, Goldberg and Rapinoe had reportedly formulated a preliminary plan: they would embark on a joint journey to scout for a new place—a potential sanctuary where achievements were genuinely celebrated, where mistakes could be forgiven, and where mutual respect was paramount.

Their first stop on this exploratory exodus was the picturesque country of Italy. The allure of the nation was undeniable, offering a rich tapestry of history, art, and culture. Rapinoe, who officially retired from professional soccer at the end of the 2023 NWSL season and played her final international match in September 2023, reportedly considered opportunities related to the Italian women’s soccer league, perhaps in an advisory or promotional capacity. Meanwhile, Goldberg, ever the artist, reportedly toyed with the idea of immersing herself in the nation’s rich cinematic history, potentially exploring roles or creative projects. Goldberg herself was indeed in Italy in June 2025 to receive an award for her book “Bits and Pieces,” and also announced a role in an Italian soap opera set for 2026. However, as much as they were drawn to the rolling vineyards and ancient amphitheaters, Italy, with its own complex societal framework and political nuances, ultimately did not seem to be the perfect, long-term fit for their stated goals.

From Italy, the influential duo ventured onward to New Zealand, drawn by the island nation’s reputation for hospitality, its breathtaking scenic beauty, and the promise of a potentially less judgmental populace. In New Zealand, Whoopi explored opportunities within the burgeoning Kiwi film industry, while Rapinoe reportedly met with representatives from New Zealand’s women’s football federation, potentially discussing roles in player development or advocacy. There was a palpable sense of hope in the air surrounding this leg of their journey, as New Zealand is often seen as a progressive and welcoming nation.

However, this ambitious journey, as Goldberg clarified in a subsequent press release, was not simply about “running away.” It was framed as a powerful statement—a testament to the profound emotional toll that relentless public scrutiny and a culture of immediate judgment can exert on prominent individuals. “It’s about finding a space where one can breathe, create, and exist without the perpetual dread of backlash,” Goldberg asserted, articulating a sentiment that resonated deeply with many.

As news of their exploratory journey and joint declaration spread across America, reactions were, as expected, widely mixed. While some segments of the public and media pundits viewed the decision as an overreaction, indicative of a perceived celebrity detachment from everyday struggles, many others began more introspective conversations. These discussions centered on the complex nature of celebrity, the collective responsibility of the public and the media in shaping discourse, and the pervasive culture of immediate, often harsh, judgment exacerbated by the omnipresent nature of social media.

In a show of solidarity, petitions began to circulate online, urging both Goldberg and Rapinoe to reconsider their decision to leave the United States. Candlelight vigils were reportedly organized in multiple cities across the country, serving both as expressions of solidarity with the two women and as a collective plea for them to remain. Fellow talk show hosts, athletes, and actors from various fields voiced their concerns, many recounting their own personal stories of public backlash and the accompanying feelings of isolation and disillusionment.

For now, Goldberg and Rapinoe’s quest for a new homeland continues. Their journey, which transcends mere geography, is as much about introspection and personal healing as it is about finding a new physical abode. Their ultimate decision—whether they choose to reside permanently abroad or eventually return to the United States—will inevitably continue to shape public discourse for years to come, sparking ongoing conversations about fame, accountability, and the search for respect in an increasingly critical global landscape.