Whoopi Goldberg Drags Reluctant Samuel L. Jackson to ‘The View’ Hot Topics, Chaos Ensues

On March 27, 2025, during an episode of ABC’s daytime talk show The View, Whoopi Goldberg unexpectedly brought actor Samuel L. Jackson onstage while his wife, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, was a guest. The incident unfolded as Richardson Jackson promoted her new Broadway play, Purpose, and revealed that Jackson was watching the show from backstage, leading to a surprising and chaotic moment on air. This surprising appearance highlighted Samuel L. Jackson The View dynamic, captivating the audience amid the unfolding tension.

LaTanya Richardson Jackson Joins the Conversation, Reveals Close Ties With Husband

LaTanya Richardson Jackson appeared on the show to discuss her latest theatrical work but also shared insights into her long-standing relationship with Samuel L. Jackson. The couple has been together for 55 years, a fact brought up by co-host Sara Haines, prompting Richardson Jackson to joke about Samuel L. Jackson’s reluctance to let her appear without him. She said,

“And he’s here with me now because he can’t let me do anything by myself,”

highlighting their close bond.

Whoopi Goldberg Pulls Samuel L. Jackson on Stage Amid Co-Hosts’ Resistance

In a spontaneous moment, the camera revealed Samuel L. Jackson seated beside the audience. Despite protests from her co-hosts, Whoopi Goldberg left her seat and physically brought Jackson to the Hot Topics table. Joy Behar expressed reluctance, saying,

“He doesn’t want to come on,”

to which Goldberg firmly replied,

“Too late.”

Once on stage, Samuel L. Jackson greeted the audience warmly, but the situation quickly escalated when the producers brought an extra chair, only for Jackson to return backstage before the segment could continue.

Samuel L. Jackson
Image of: Samuel L. Jackson

Moment Shifts Focus Back to LaTanya Richardson Jackson and Their Shared Journey

As tensions rose, Joy Behar reminded everyone,

“This is her moment,”

emphasizing that the interview was intended to spotlight Richardson Jackson. The actress reflected on their early days at Spelman College, describing their youthful ambition and unexpected paths to success. She recalled,

“We were doing revolutionary theatre. We were trying to make a difference in the world,”

adding,

“We weren’t really out here being stars like he became.”

She portrayed herself as a hardworking performer, explaining,

“Like I tell everybody, I’m a blue-collar worker. I just show up to do the work. Trust me, he was not in a lane that was telling him he was getting ready to be a star. This is work. He was gonna be an actor.”

What This Means for ‘The View’ and Samuel L. Jackson’s Public Appearances

This unexpected and somewhat chaotic episode underlined the unpredictable nature of live television and the complex dynamics among celebrities appearing on talk shows. Samuel L. Jackson’s reluctance contrasted with Whoopi Goldberg’s persistence, creating a memorable moment for viewers. Meanwhile, LaTanya Richardson Jackson’s candid discussion about her partnership and career added depth to the conversation. As The View prepares for its upcoming hiatus starting July 28, viewers may anticipate whether such surprise appearances will return when the show resumes in September.

The View continues to broadcast weekdays at 11/10c on ABC, maintaining its platform for lively and often contentious discussions.