Quincy Jones, a legendary figure in entertainment, passed away in November 2024 at 91. He was credited with 28 Grammy Awards and seven nominations for Oscars, worked with legends like Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Ray Charles. He also produced Michael Jackson’s Thriller, the best-selling album in the world’s history.
One of his most significant contributions to film was the creation of the movie The Color Purple in 1985. Oprah Winfrey performed as Sofia, earning her an Oscar nomination, and Whoopi Goldberg’s portrayal of Celie earned her a Golden Globe. The Color Purple received 11 Academy Award nominations, bearing witness to its continuing influence. Years later, the two actors came together at the Oscars to pay their respects to the man who had started their careers in Hollywood.
Late Quincy Jones was hailed as a genius by Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey
Winfrey and Goldberg took the podium at the 2025 Oscars and offered an emotional tribute to Quincy Jones. Winfrey called him a phenomenal musical mastermind, mentioning his wins and collaboration with some of the biggest musical names ever. She added that his legacy extended far beyond music — his efforts in film as a composer and producer were just as memorable. Goldberg praised Jones as a symbol of Black greatness. She reminded everyone that he shattered history in 1967 when he was the first Black composer in history to be nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song. At the same time, he also got a nomination for Best Original Score, a milestone for Black creatives who were starting out in Hollywood.
Their tribute also captured his impact on their lives. Jones was an observer of talent, and with The Color Purple, he insisted on Winfrey and Goldberg in the starring roles. Winfrey, then a host of a morning show in Chicago, had never acted in a film. Jones saw her on TV and knew she was perfect for the role of Sofia. He tracked her down and persuaded her to attend an audition. Goldberg had some experience with stand-up comedy, but Jones believed that she could bring the life of Celie to the screen, so he insisted that she be hired. After their speech, Queen Latifah performed “Ease on Down the Road” from The Wiz, a film Jones had also worked on as a tribute to him.
Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg wrote tributes to Quincy Jones after his death
Winfrey and Goldberg took to social media when Quincy Jones passed away to say how much they loved him. Goldberg posted on Instagram that Jones was a great friend, one she had been fortunate to have in her life for many years. She stated he was one of a kind, unlike any other with whom she had ever shared a connection. Winfrey also shared her feelings on social media, calling Jones irreplaceable in her life. She reflected on how he had discovered her for The Color Purple, taking her on a journey that would shape the remainder of her life. She also spoke of their close relationship, saying he was the first person she ever loved unconditionally and that they always signed letters to each other with the term “unconditionally.”
Their association with Jones went beyond Hollywood. Not only was he a mentor, he was also a lifelong friend. Jones remained in close contact with these two actresses, celebrating their victories and guiding them. Jones was largely responsible for the success of Winfrey’s early days, long before The Oprah Winfrey Show became popular nationwide in 1986. He recognized her star power and introduced her to people within the business, setting her on the road to stardom. Goldberg also benefited from Jones’s unconditional support. He supported her in Hollywood, encouraging her dramatic and comedic abilities. He continued to advocate for Goldberg throughout her career, helping her secure other television and film roles, including a role in The Wiz Live! years later.