In a stunning announcement that has sent shockwaves through Hollywood and the sports world, WNBA star Brittney Griner and iconic actress and talk show host Whoopi Goldberg have revealed their decision to leave the United States, citing a lack of appreciation for their contributions and the growing social and political tensions in the country.
The news comes at a time when conversations about racial injustice, political division, and the treatment of outspoken public figures have reached a boiling point. Both Griner and Goldberg have been vocal advocates for social change, using their platforms to address controversial issues—but now, they feel their efforts are met with more criticism than support.
A Bold Decision Sparked by Growing Frustrations
For Griner, the decision follows a tumultuous few years. The basketball star became a central figure in international politics when she was detained in Russia on drug charges, spending nearly ten months in a Russian prison before being released in a highly publicized prisoner swap brokered by the U.S. government. While many Americans supported her return, she also faced backlash from critics who questioned the government’s decision to prioritize her release.
Since then, Griner has spoken openly about the difficulties of reintegrating into American life, saying she has felt "unfairly scrutinized and unappreciated" despite her years of athletic excellence and advocacy work.
Meanwhile, Whoopi Goldberg, a longtime co-host of The View and an Oscar-winning actress, has also endured her share of controversy. Known for her strong political opinions, Goldberg has frequently clashed with conservative critics and has faced suspensions from The View over remarks deemed controversial. She has publicly expressed frustration over the increasing polarization of American discourse, stating that she feels the country has become too hostile to those who challenge the status quo.
According to sources close to both women, their decision to leave the U.S. is not just about politics but also about seeking a place where they feel truly valued and respected for their work and beliefs.
A Nation Divided: Supporters vs. Critics
Unsurprisingly, the announcement has ignited a firestorm of reactions across social media and beyond. Supporters of Griner and Goldberg have praised their decision, agreeing that outspoken Black women in America often face disproportionate backlash for expressing their views. Many fans have encouraged them to move somewhere they feel more comfortable, applauding their courage to take such a bold stand.
However, critics have been far less sympathetic, with some arguing that both women have thrived in the U.S. and achieved massive success—suggesting that their claims of being "unappreciated" are unfounded.
Commentators have pointed out that Whoopi Goldberg has built a decades-long career in entertainment, earning prestigious awards, and that Brittney Griner was brought back to the U.S. through extraordinary diplomatic efforts—which, they argue, proves how much the country does value them.
One viral tweet read:
"If Whoopi and Brittney don’t feel appreciated here, they should try living somewhere without the freedoms and opportunities they’ve had in the U.S."
Another user responded:
"Black women who speak out are always told to ‘be grateful’ instead of being listened to. Whoopi and Brittney are just tired of it."
Where Will They Go?
While neither Griner nor Goldberg has confirmed where they plan to relocate, speculation is already swirling. Some reports suggest that Canada, with its progressive social policies and diverse culture, is a possible destination. Others believe they might consider European countries like France or the Netherlands, where racial justice movements have gained traction in recent years.
Regardless of where they go, their departure—if it happens—will mark a significant cultural moment. It raises questions about whether America is doing enough to support its public figures who push for change or if the backlash they receive is simply an unavoidable consequence of speaking out.
For now, both Griner and Goldberg remain firm in their stance: they no longer feel appreciated in the U.S., and they’re ready for a fresh start elsewhere. Whether they follow through on their plans or not, their announcement has reignited debates about race, respect, and freedom of expression in modern America—conversations that will undoubtedly continue long after their departure.