The Color Purple stars paid tribute to their late collaborator, celebrating his impact on music, film, and the Academy Awards.
Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey took the Oscars stage to honor Quincy Jones, the legendary producer and composer behind The Color Purple, who passed away in 2024. The emotional tribute highlighted his contributions to both pop culture and the Academy, where he made history as the first Black composer nominated for an Oscar.
Winfrey, 71, and Goldberg, 69, introduced the dedication to Jones, celebrating his groundbreaking career and lasting influence.
“When we talk about Black excellence, we’re talking about Quincy,” Goldberg declared, urging the audience to “give it up” for the iconic musician. Winfrey echoed the sentiment, calling him a “musical genius” whose impact spanned generations.
Goldberg and Winfrey shared how Jones shaped their own careers, with Winfrey revealing, “He actually discovered me for The Color Purple, which was my first film.” Goldberg added, “Me, too.”
The tribute concluded with a stirring musical performance by Queen Latifah, who took the stage to sing “Ease on Down the Road” from The Wiz—one of Jones’ many celebrated projects.
Jones, who produced The Color Purple in 1985, received three Oscar nominations for his work on the film, including Best Picture and Best Original Score. He earned a total of seven nominations throughout his career, and in June 2024—just months before his passing—the Academy honored him with an Honorary Oscar.
Following his death, Goldberg reflected on their longtime friendship on The View.
"I had no better friend," she said. "When others walked away, Quincy stayed. He always told me to stand my ground, and I always will."
The original Color Purple film, based on Alice Walker’s novel, earned 11 Oscar nominations, including acting nods for both Goldberg and Winfrey. Its legacy continued with the 2023 musical adaptation starring Fantasia Barrino and Danielle Brooks, with Brooks securing an Oscar nomination for her performance.
Sunday’s tribute marked a special Oscars return for both Goldberg and Winfrey. While Winfrey has been nominated twice—including for producing Selma—Goldberg is a four-time host and remains the woman who has hosted the most Academy Award ceremonies in history.
Their emotional reunion at the 2025 Oscars was a fitting tribute to the man who helped bring The Color Purple to life—and a powerful reminder of Quincy Jones’ enduring legacy in Hollywood.
Source: Entertainment Weekly