Whoopi Goldberg and Soccer Star Megan Rapinoe Announce Their Intention to Leave America: “After What Has Happened, We Are DONE With…” See More 👇

In a headline-making moment that has taken social media and political circles by storm, EGOT-winning actress and talk show host Whoopi Goldberg, along with U.S. soccer icon Megan Rapinoe, have publicly announced their intention to leave the United States, citing growing frustration over what they describe as “a dangerous shift in the country’s values and treatment of marginalized voices.”

The joint statement came during a surprise appearance at a civil liberties conference in San Francisco, where the two longtime advocates for equality and social justice took the stage to loud applause—before dropping a bombshell.

> “After what has happened—what continues to happen—we are done with pretending this country is still what it used to be,” Goldberg said. “It’s heartbreaking, but we’re leaving. We’ve earned the right to walk away.”

Rapinoe, who stood firmly beside her, added:

> “I’ve bled for this country, I’ve spoken out, and I’ve tried to lead with hope. But when basic rights are stripped and voices like ours are mocked, criminalized, or silenced—what more can we do? We are done with the gaslighting. We’re leaving.”

What Sparked the Decision?

While neither Goldberg nor Rapinoe mentioned one specific event, their announcement follows several high-profile developments in recent months, including:

The repeal of key civil rights protections in several U.S. states.

Increased censorship of books, classroom speech, and media content related to race, gender, and LGBTQ+ rights.

Tensions with political figures who have publicly mocked or dismissed Goldberg and Rapinoe for their outspoken views.

A recent viral moment on The View in which Goldberg clashed with a guest over America’s “moral compass”—an exchange that drew intense backlash and renewed threats against her.

Many observers believe the breaking point came after a wave of anti-transgender legislation and the Supreme Court’s recent decision that overturned protections once guaranteed under the Civil Rights Act and Title IX.

Reactions Pour In

The reactions have been swift and deeply divided.

Supporters flooded X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram with hashtags like #WeStandWithWhoopi and #RapinoeDeservesBetter, applauding their decision as brave and overdue.

One fan posted:

> “Whoopi and Megan fought for this country harder than most. If they’re leaving, it says something is seriously wrong here.”

But critics were just as vocal.

> “Good riddance,” one comment read. “If they hate it so much, they won’t be missed.”

Where Are They Going?

Goldberg mentioned she is considering relocating to Switzerland or South Africa, where she says “artistic freedom and human rights are still honored without hypocrisy.”

Rapinoe stated she has been exploring Spain and New Zealand, praising both countries for their progressive values, support of women’s sports, and commitment to inclusivity.

> “It’s not about escape—it’s about choosing peace over conflict,” Rapinoe said. “We’re not abandoning America. America abandoned us.”

What’s Next?

Goldberg plans to finish out the current season of The View, though sources close to ABC say she has “no intention of returning” next season.

Rapinoe, who retired from professional soccer last year, said she would remain active in international advocacy and sports equity but from outside the U.S.

In a poignant moment near the end of their remarks, Goldberg concluded:

> “I love this country. That’s why this hurts so much. But at some point, you have to know when it’s time to say goodbye.”