Gil Ozeri
Writing
John Waters
DirectingBaltimore, Maryland, USAJohn Samuel Waters Jr. (born April 22, 1946) is an American filmmaker, writer, actor, and artist. He rose to fame in the early 1970s for his transgressive cult films, including Multiple Maniacs (1970), Pink Flamingos (1972) and Female Trouble (1974). Waters wrote and directed the comedy film Hairspray (1988), which was later adapted into a hit Broadway musical and a 2007 musical film. Other films he has written and directed include Desperate Living (1977), Polyester (1981), Cry-Baby (1990), Serial Mom (1994), Pecker (1998), and Cecil B. Demented (2000). His films contain elements of post-modern comedy and surrealism.As an actor, Waters has appeared in Sweet and Lowdown (1999), 'Til Death Do Us Part (2007), Mangus! (2011), Excision (2012), Suburban Gothic (2014), and has appeared in the Child's Play franchise with Seed of Chucky (2004) and third season of the television series Chucky (2024). He hosted and produced the television series John Waters Presents Movies That Will Corrupt You (2006). Throughout his career, Waters has often collaborated with actor and drag queen Divine and his regular cast of the Dreamlanders. More recently, he performs in his touring one-man show This Filthy World.Waters also works as a visual artist and across different media, such as installations, photography, and sculpture. The audiobooks he narrated for his books Carsick and Mr. Know-It-All were nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album in 2015 and 2020, respectively. In 2018, Waters was named an officer of the Order of Arts and Letters in France. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2023.
Whoopi Goldberg
ActingNew York City, New York, USAWhoopi Goldberg, born Caryn Elaine Johnson, has forged a remarkable career that transcends the boundaries of entertainment. From her early days in the vibrant world of stand-up comedy to her prominent roles on both stage and screen, Goldberg has captivated audiences with her unique blend of humour and deep emotional resonance. Her journey began in the 1980s, when she quickly established herself as a formidable talent in the comedy circuit.
Goldberg's breakthrough came in 1985 with her role as Celie in the film adaptation of Alice Walker's novel, The Color Purple. This performance not only showcased her extraordinary acting range but also earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film was a pivotal moment in her career, allowing her to transition from theatre to mainstream cinema and solidifying her status as a powerful voice in Hollywood.
In 1990, she starred in the blockbuster Ghost, portraying Oda Mae Brown, a psychic who assists a murdered man in uncovering his killer. This performance not only garnered her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress but also a second Golden Globe. Her ability to seamlessly blend comedy with drama has become a hallmark of her acting style, allowing her to tackle complex characters with both depth and humour.
Goldberg's filmography is a testament to her versatility, featuring a mix of genres that includes comedies like Sister Act and Sister Act 2, animated classics such as The Lion King, and dramatic roles in films like How Stella Got Her Groove Back and Girl, Interrupted. Each role showcases her remarkable talent, further establishing her as a household name.
Beyond her film work, Goldberg has made significant contributions to television. She has been nominated for 13 Emmy Awards, reflecting her impact on the small screen. Notably, her role as Guinan in Star Trek: The Next Generation introduced a new generation of fans to her work, proving that her appeal crossed into the realms of science fiction and fantasy.
Goldberg's presence extends into talk shows, where she has been a prominent figure as the moderator of The View since 2007. Her wit, intelligence, and willingness to engage in critical conversations have made her a respected voice in discussions around important social issues.
Throughout her career, Goldberg has received numerous accolades, including a Grammy, two Emmys, two Golden Globes, a Tony, and an Oscar. She is among the elite few to have achieved the coveted EGOT status, winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award. Her accomplishments have not only earned her recognition but have also inspired countless aspiring actors and comedians.
Goldberg's influence on the industry is undeniable. She has broken barriers for women of colour in entertainment, using her platform to advocate for social justice and equality. Her legacy is one of empowerment, as she continues to pave the way for future generations of performers.
As an artist, activist, and entertainer, Whoopi Goldberg has left an indelible mark on the world of film and television. Her career is a vibrant tapestry woven with laughter, poignancy, and a commitment to making a difference. As she continues to evolve as an artist, her journey remains a source of inspiration for many.
Insomniacs Trivia
- Goldberg was the first black woman to win an Academy Award for acting since Hattie McDaniel in 1940.
- She was originally cast in The Color Purple after Steven Spielberg saw her in a one-woman show.
- Goldberg has co-produced the game show Hollywood Squares, which became a hit during her tenure.
- Her voice work in animated films includes iconic roles, such as Shenzi in The Lion King.
- Goldberg is known for her bold political views and often uses her platform to speak on social issues.
Insomniacs Take
Whoopi Goldberg's career is a celebration of not just talent but also tenacity. Her ability to tackle tough subjects with humour and grace has made her a beloved figure across generations. Whether in comedy, drama, or activism, she has consistently used her voice to effect change and entertain, making her an essential part of the fabric of modern entertainment.
Bertie Gregory
ActingUKBertie Gregory is an award-winning British wildlife filmmaker, cinematographer, and National Geographic Explorer whose work has redefined immersive natural history storytelling. Known for his "hands-on" approach to filmmaking—often serving as his own Director of Photography while hosting—Gregory has become a central figure in bringing the planet’s most elusive and endangered species to global audiences.His trajectory into the natural history film industry began with a childhood obsession that saw him out in the field with a camera from a young age. This early dedication was first recognized when he was named 'Youth Outdoor Photographer of the Year.' After graduating with a degree in Zoology from the University of Bristol in 2014, Gregory’s career was fast-tracked when he began assisting the legendary National Geographic photographer Steve Winter. This partnership transitioned into television, with the duo producing major specials such as Leopards at the Door and Jaguar Vs Croc.Gregory's technical prowess and on-camera charisma led to a prolific run with National Geographic and Disney+, where he has hosted and produced numerous high-stakes projects, including Wild_Life, The Big Freeze, and Resurrection Island. The latter earned him the prestigious Best Television Host title at the 2019 Jackson Wild Awards—widely considered the "Oscars" of the nature film world.In addition to his hosting duties, Gregory is an elite cinematographer who has contributed to some of the most celebrated blue-chip series in history. While filming for the landmark BBC David Attenborough series Seven Worlds, One Planet, he became one of BAFTA’s youngest-ever cinematography winners. His career has since expanded into major global franchises for Disney+, including Epic Adventures with Bertie Gregory, Animals Up Close, and Secrets of the Penguins, where he continues to push the boundaries of technology and storytelling to advocate for global conservation.
Olivia Pickering
Acting