Serena Williams’ Super Bowl Appearance

During a recent discussion on “The View,” Whoopi Goldberg sharply criticized Stephen A. Smith for linking Serena Williams’ attention-grabbing appearance during the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show to her ex-boyfriend, Drake. Goldberg’s criticism not only reflected her personal views but also sparked a broader debate on how women and their achievements are often evaluated through the lens of their relationships with men. This situation underscores the ongoing struggle for women’s recognition in their own right, separate from their past associations.

Serena Williams, one of the greatest athletes of all time, made a remarkable appearance at the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show. Fans eagerly anticipated this moment, not just for her athletic prowess but also for her unique personality. However, instead of celebrating her achievements, Stephen A. Smith chose to connect this moment to her former boyfriend, which did not sit well with Whoopi Goldberg. This reaction illustrates a common issue where women’s accomplishments are overshadowed by their past relationships, detracting from their individual successes.

Whoopi Goldberg Raises Questions

On “The View,” Goldberg posed pointed questions: “Why couldn’t it just be, ‘Damn, Serena is amazing’? Why does it have to be about an ex-boyfriend she’s probably not even thinking about?” Her questions not only expressed frustration but also highlighted how women are frequently judged based on their relationships with men rather than their personal accomplishments. This sentiment resonates with many who believe that women should be recognized for their talents and contributions without being tied to their past.

Goldberg’s remarks emphasize the need for a cultural shift in how society perceives women, advocating for a narrative that celebrates their achievements rather than diminishing them through a male lens. This conversation is crucial in promoting gender equality and ensuring that women’s voices are heard and valued in their own right.

Stephen A. Smith’s Response

Stephen A. Smith, a well-known sports analyst, stirred controversy by stating that he would “divorce” Serena Williams if she were involved in “trolling” her ex, Drake. He argued that such behavior would reflect insecurity in marriage and questioned her intentions behind attending a high-profile event like the Super Bowl. Smith’s reaction not only sparked controversy but also revealed a negative perspective on women, particularly successful figures like Serena Williams.

Goldberg emphasized that Williams’ appearance was a major opportunity, not an excuse to revisit old relationships. She argued that instead of celebrating Serena’s success, Smith dragged it down by associating it with the past. This highlights the importance of focusing on individual achievements rather than framing them within the context of past romances, reinforcing the notion that women deserve to be celebrated for their own merits.

Support from Co-Hosts

Goldberg’s co-hosts on “The View” supported her stance. Sara Haines noted that Smith’s reaction revealed more about men’s insecurities in marriage than about Serena Williams. Haines pointed out that even Williams’ husband praised her performance, showing that Drake wasn’t part of the equation. This support from her co-hosts further solidifies the idea that women’s accomplishments should be acknowledged independently of their relationships.

The backing from Goldberg’s co-hosts serves to strengthen the argument for recognizing women as individuals with their own identities and achievements. By highlighting Williams’ supportive marital relationship, they reinforce the narrative that women can thrive without being defined by their past associations.

Sunny Hostin and Cultural Legacy

Sunny Hostin, another co-host, highlighted that Serena’s dance was not just a fun moment but also a representation of cultural heritage. She referenced the criticism Williams faced for performing a similar move at the 2012 Olympics, affirming that it was an expression of joy and pride in her roots. This acknowledgment of cultural significance adds depth to the conversation, illustrating how Williams’ appearance transcends mere entertainment.