How many times has Whoopi Goldberg been married? All we know about her family as The View host recalls past relationships 

Academy Award-winning actress, comedian, and The View co-host Whoopi Goldberg has remained an institution in Hollywood for decades, revered for her stinging humor, forthright perspective, and iconic career.

But despite her professional life being widely chronicled, her personal relationships have always sparked gossip. Goldberg has written about her views on marriage, love, and family over the years and has reflected on her past relationships and why she ultimately decided that married life wasn’t for her.

Whoopi Goldberg's Marriages

She has been married three times, although she later clarified that her experience was not representative of her personal approach to marriage.

Alvin Martin (1973–1979)

Goldberg’s first marriage was to Alvin Martin, a drug counselor, in 1973. This union led to the birth of their daughter, Alexandrea Martin, in the same year. Though their marriage ended in divorce in 1979, their daughter followed her mother’s lead into the entertainment industry as an actress and producer.

David Claessen (1986–1988)

After a seven-year hiatus, Goldberg wed Dutch cinematographer David Claessen in 1986. The marriage lasted two years; they divorced in 1988.

Lyle Trachtenberg (1994–1995)

Goldberg married for the third time in 1994 to union organizer Lyle Trachtenberg. This marriage was the shortest of all, ending in a difficult divorce in 1995 after just over a year.

Goldberg’s Views on Marriage

Despite having walked down the aisle multiple times, Whoopi Goldberg has been candid about the fact that she never truly wanted to be married. In multiple interviews, she has confessed that she got married due to social pressure and expectations rather than personal desire.

In a 2016 interview with The New York Times, she candidly said:

“I tried marriage, and it wasn’t for me. You have to be really committed to someone. I don’t have that commitment. I’m committed to my family.”

Whoopi Goldberg has spoken about how she enjoys living alone and values her independence, noting that she prefers having her own space. Speaking on The View in 2019, she explained that she loves coming and going without having to answer to a partner.

Whoopi Goldberg’s Family and Legacy

Although she has sworn off marriage, Whoopi Goldberg is dedicated to her family. She is also a proud grandmother of three grandchildren from her daughter, Alexandrea Martin. She even has great-grandchildren.

Goldberg's family remains an essential part of her life as she continues her successful career. As a host on The View, she often shares stories about her loved ones, proving that even though marriage wasn’t her cup of tea, love and family are still central to her life.

A Life Lived on Her Terms

At 69, Whoopi Goldberg embodies what it means to live life on one’s own terms. She married three times, and after those marriages ended, she realized she preferred being alone. She has stayed true to herself, which is admirable.

While some may find joy in long-term partnerships, Goldberg has found happiness in her career, friendships, and family, with no need for a spouse to complete her.

As she continues to entertain and inspire audiences through The View and other outlets, one thing remains certain—Whoopi Goldberg is unapologetically herself, telling her story exactly as she wants.