At the 2015 D23 Expo, when Pirates of the Caribbean star Johnny Depp unexpectedly joined the Disney Legends class for year, a new tradition was seemingly born. During today’s Legends ceremony, it was announced that, in addition to previously announced inductees, Whoopi Goldberg would also be honored as a Disney Legend.
Based on Goldberg’s resume, it’s easy to see why she fits the bill of Legend status. Just a few of her Disney film credits include Sister Act and its sequel, The Lion King, and Toy Story 3 in addition to serving as moderator on ABC’s The View since 2007. Additionally, Goldberg has appeared in Disney attractions such as Superstar Limo and Golden Dreams. She’s also a fan-favorite narrators on Epcot’s Candlelight Processional events.
According to anecdotes Goldberg has shared in the past, Disney also holds a special place in her heart. On a recent episode of The View, which brought the panel to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Goldberg recalled the story of taking her mother to Disneyland for the first time:
Beyond her surprise appearance at today’s Legends ceremony, Goldberg is also set to host a panel looking at Disney live-action movie musicals at this year’s Expo.