Goldberg, also a co-host of "The View," reportedly reached out to Steven Spielberg, the director and producer of both the original and the remake, and vehemently urged him to reconsider Markle's casting, asserting that she was unsuitable for the role. Goldberg's frustration stemmed from her perception that Markle's involvement was an affront to her own legacy and to the legacy of Alice Walker, the author of the novel. She voiced that Markle lacked the necessary talent and experience to portray such a multifaceted and iconic character, suggesting that Markle was leveraging the film to enhance her fame and fortune, devoid of respect for the story's historical significance and message, as per insider accounts.
Furthermore, Goldberg accused Markle of hypocrisy and falsehood, contending that Markle had betrayed both the black community and the royal family with her contentious interview alongside Oprah Winfrey earlier in the year, where she made allegations of racism and mistreatment. Goldberg characterized Markle as a charlatan and manipulator who had manipulated victimhood to garner sympathy and attention. She asserted that Markle had distorted her experiences within the royal family, embellishing and distorting the truth for self-aggrandizement, with little understanding of the experiences of black women in America. Goldberg contended that Markle had exploited the struggles and suffering endured by those who had lived through the agonies of slavery and segregation and had no entitlement to be part of "The Color Purple," a narrative of resilience and empowerment for black women, according to the insider sources.
Steven Spielberg, taken aback and hurt by Goldberg's impassioned outburst, expressed his profound respect and gratitude for Whoopi, recognizing her significant contribution to the original film. He explained that he had chosen Meghan for the role of Shug because he believed in her charisma and presence, viewing her as having the potential to embody the character. Spielberg emphasized that his intention was not to slight or replace Whoopi but to honor and celebrate her legacy. He hoped that Goldberg would understand and support his vision, and he even expressed a desire to involve her in some capacity in the remake, according to the source.
On Meghan Markle's part, she was ecstatic when Spielberg offered her the role of Shug. She expressed that it was a dream come true for her and professed her deep admiration for "The Color Purple." Meghan revealed her immense respect for Whoopi Goldberg and expressed her eagerness to meet her and glean wisdom from her. She conveyed her determination to bring justice to the role and the story, considering the movie as an avenue to express herself as an artist and a woman while sharing a positive and inspiring message with the world, as outlined by the source.
The remake of "The Color Purple" is slated to commence filming next year, with a projected release date in 2025. The cast also includes Jennifer Hudson as Sophia, Cynthia Erivo as Celie, and Leslie Odom Jr. as Mister.
