Kevin Costner, a veteran actor who won an Oscar, has caused a media storm after he refused to appear on the same stage as actress Whoopi Goldberg at this year’s Oscar Awards ceremony. An inside source at the organizing committee said that Costner has tentatively decided that if Goldberg continues to co-host or appear in her segment, he will withdraw from the event. He is said to have specifically said: “Choose me or her.”
The case quickly spread on social networks and attracted the attention of not only film fans but also international media. Although both sides did not speak officially, rumors about the cause of the conflict began to explode. Some people think that Costner and Goldberg had been in conflict for many years related to disagreements in political and social issues. Underground clashes in interviews or public speeches had previously been searched, making the public more suspicious.
The Oscar organizers are in an awkward situation. Kevin Costner is one of the symbols of Hollywood with a career spanning more than four decades and a huge fan base. Meanwhile, Whoopi Goldberg is not only one of the artists who win EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony) but also one of the most familiar faces of Oscar in many seasons. The incident forced the organizing committee to meet to adjust the script of the program, avoiding the two stars facing each other directly on stage.
The reaction of the online community is also divided into two distinct opinions. One side supports Costner, saying that he has the right to protect his workspace if he feels uncomfortable with a specific individual. On the contrary, many people criticize Costner’s actions as unprofessional, affecting the image of the event and triggering unnecessary tensions among the artists. Some comments that two veteran stars should have overcome personal conflicts to maintain professionalism and respect the global audience.
The silence of the two main characters makes the story more emotional. Until now, it is unclear whether Costner will really be absent from the ceremony and whether Goldberg will continue to play a plan or will have a last-minute replacement. While waiting for official feedback, the international media are still constantly monitoring all related developments.
This incident continues to prove that, beyond the flashy spotlights and spotlights, Hollywood still has personal conflicts, underground battles that the public has rarely witnessed. Oscar 2025, therefore, is not only awaited by the prestigious awards, but also by the drama behind the stories.