Debunked: Kevin Costner's Alleged Oscars Snub of Whoopi Goldberg

A recent social media claim suggesting Kevin Costner refused to share the stage with Whoopi Goldberg at the Academy Awards has been proven false. This misinformation, which originated from a satirical source, gained traction online without proper context.

The false narrative emerged on various platforms, including Threads, where side-by-side photos of Costner and Goldberg were shared with a misleading caption. The post alleged that Costner had stated he wouldn't stand with Goldberg "Not if my life depend on it."

This claim prompted reactions from social media users, with some questioning Costner's motives and others expressing disappointment. However, a spokesperson for Costner unequivocally stated to Reuters, "This story is not true," adding that Costner considers Goldberg "a dear friend."

The origin of this false narrative can be traced back to the Dunning Kruger Times, a website that explicitly identifies itself as satirical. The story was published on March 19, 2023, just nine days after the 95th Academy Awards ceremony held on March 10, 2023.

It's worth noting that both Costner and Goldberg are accomplished figures in the film industry. Costner has won two Academy Awards, while Goldberg is one of the few entertainers to achieve EGOT status, having won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award.

The spread of this misinformation highlights the importance of fact-checking in the digital age. As social media platforms continue to grapple with the spread of false information, users are encouraged to verify sources and be wary of sensationalized claims.

"This article was produced by the Reuters Fact Check team. Read more about our fact-checking work."

The incident serves as a reminder of the potential real-world consequences of unchecked misinformation and the crucial role of professional fact-checking organizations in maintaining the integrity of public discourse.