Many consider Mel Brooks’ "Blazing Saddles" one of the greatest satirical comedies of all time. Though the movie was a box office hit upon release, a lot has changed since 1974, and many have pointed out that the biting and nontraditional western couldn’t be made today due to its subject matter. According to the writer and director of the movie (Brooks), "Blazing Saddles" likely couldn’t be released today-- not because of racism, but due to the political climate. While many critics have levied accusations of racism towards "Saddles," one Hollywood star has come out supporting the nearly half-a-century-old film, none other than the Academy Award-winning actress and "The View" co-host, Whoopi Goldberg.
Whoopi Goldberg pushed back on claims that the Cleavon Little and Gene Wilder-starring film is racist. She told her "The View" co-hosts that those criticizing "Blazing Saddles" for being racist are missing the point. The actress points out that Brooks’ satire goes at racism and all other “isms” equally and with comedy, which is one of the film’s greatest strengths. Goldberg said it would still work with today’s audiences because it’s a great comedy. She also has some choice words for recent comedy releases.
