In a stunning escalation no one saw coming, Erika Kirk has filed a $90 million defamation lawsuit against Whoopi Goldberg—accusing the longtime View host of turning what Kirk calls “an innocent, compassionate hug”
into “a nationwide adultery scandal that didn’t even exist.”
According to the complaint filed late Wednesday, Kirk claims that Goldberg’s comments on national television transformed a harmless moment into a full-blown viral controversy, damaging her reputation, her marriage, and her work with faith-based advocacy organizations.
A Hug That Became a Headline
The lawsuit centers on a brief interaction Kirk had at a charity event weeks earlier. Photos captured her embracing a well-known public figure. Kirk says the moment was simply one of support—nothing romantic, nothing suggestive.
But when the image hit the internet, social media began spinning rumors.
And then, according to Kirk, Whoopi Goldberg poured gasoline on the fire.
On The View, Goldberg referenced the photo in her signature blunt style, allegedly joking that
“some people hug like they’re hiding something”—a remark the lawsuit claims caused media outlets to explode with speculation.
Kirk insists the hug was innocent.
Goldberg’s commentary, she argues, was not.
The Accusation: “She Created a Scandal Out of Thin Air”
In the 42-page filing, Kirk states:
“Whoopi Goldberg’s words carried national influence and turned a nonexistent scandal into a personal and professional nightmare. She created an entire story that was never true.”
Kirk says she received hateful messages, online harassment, and even threats.
She claims her sponsors hesitated to continue partnerships, and several events quietly canceled her scheduled appearances.
Her lawyers argue that Goldberg acted
“maliciously or with reckless disregard for the truth.”
They are seeking $90 million in damages for emotional distress, reputational harm, and financial loss.
Goldberg’s Camp Responds
A spokesperson for Goldberg said they were
“reviewing the complaint” and declined further comment.
Insiders at ABC say the network was caught off guard by the size of the lawsuit.
Sources close to The View insist Goldberg had “no intention of implying adultery,” and that her comments were simply “lighthearted commentary” taken out of context.
But Kirk argues the damage was real—and irreversible.
The Bigger Issue: Celebrity Gossip vs. Real-World Consequences
This lawsuit raises an uncomfortable question for daytime television and online culture:
At what point does commentary stop being harmless and start destroying someone’s life?
Whether Kirk wins or not, the case has already sparked debate across social media.
Some say she’s right to push back against careless public commentary.
Others argue she’s overreacting and trying to cash in.
But one thing is certain:
This story is far from over.
