Brandy and Whoopi Goldberg Reunite Nearly 30 Years After 'Cinderella'

The co-stars reflected on their time working with the late Whitney Houston on the beloved 1997 TV movie.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 4:34pm

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Brandy and Whoopi Goldberg, who co-starred in the 1997 TV adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella, reunited on The View to reminisce about their time on the set and working with the late Whitney Houston. Brandy, who played the title role, becoming the first Black actress to do so in a major production, spoke about her excitement at working with the 'legends and greats' of the film, while Goldberg, who played the Queen, became emotional when seeing a clip of Brandy's first meeting with Houston, who portrayed the Fairy Godmother.

Why it matters

Cinderella was a landmark moment in pop culture history, featuring a diverse cast and representing a significant step forward in representation on screen. The reunion of Brandy and Goldberg, two of the film's stars, highlights the lasting impact and significance of the project, especially in the wake of Houston's passing.

The details

Brandy joined Goldberg on The View to promote her new memoir, Phases, and the two reflected on their time working together on Cinderella. Brandy expressed her excitement at being part of the film and working alongside 'legends and greats' like Goldberg and Houston. Goldberg became emotional when a clip of Brandy's first meeting with Houston was shown, where the late singer expressed her pride in Brandy. The two co-stars praised each other, with Goldberg commending Brandy's talent and kindness on set, and Brandy describing Goldberg as someone 'they don't make them like you anymore'.

  • Cinderella aired on ABC in November 1997.
  • Brandy and Goldberg's reunion took place on The View in 2026, nearly 30 years after the film's release.

The players

Brandy

An American singer, songwriter, and actress who played the title role in the 1997 TV adaptation of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella, becoming the first Black actress to do so in a major production.

Whoopi Goldberg

An American actress, comedian, author, and television personality who played the Queen in the 1997 TV adaptation of Cinderella.

Whitney Houston

An American singer, actress, and model who played the Fairy Godmother in the 1997 TV adaptation of Cinderella.

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What they’re saying

“I just remember being so excited and so blown away by all of these amazing legends and greats.”

— Brandy

“We were blown away by you.”

— Whoopi Goldberg

“I'm so proud of you.”

— Whitney Houston

What’s next

Brandy's new memoir, Phases, is set to be released later this year, providing further insight into her experiences and career.

The takeaway

Cinderella's diverse and talented cast, led by Brandy, Whoopi Goldberg, and the late Whitney Houston, created a landmark moment in pop culture history that continues to be celebrated and appreciated decades later.