To celebrate the 30th anniversary of “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit,” Whoopi Goldberg reunited the film’s cast on “The View,” including many of the child actors who formed the movie’s choir. This nostalgic gathering recreated the memorable scene where Goldberg’s character, Sister Mary Clarence, leads the choir in a soulful performance of “Oh Happy Day.”
Ryan Toby, who portrayed the young Ahmal, returned to sing “Oh Happy Day” alongside Goldberg, just as they did three decades ago. The reunion also featured a performance of “Joyful, Joyful,” with Tanya Trotter of The War and Treaty stepping in for Lauryn Hill, who played the original role of Rita Louise Watson. Hill’s role in the film was a pivotal moment in her career. Goldberg was moved to tears after the heartfelt rendition of “Joyful, Joyful.”
Among those joining the reunion were Kathy Najimy, Wendy Makkena, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Monica Calhoun, Alex Martin, David Kater, Frank Odell Howard, Dionna Nichelle, Jermaine Montell, Tanya Trotter, DeeDee Magno Hall, Ashley Thompson, and Deondray Gossfield.
During the reunion, Goldberg reflected on why the “Sister Act” films have maintained their popularity over the years, noting that “everybody recognizes themselves” in the characters. “Worldwide, it doesn’t matter how old you are, you are the age of those kids when you see the movie,” she said. “You remember how happy you were that you didn’t have to go to Catholic school, but then you feel a bit of regret for missing out on teachers like this.”
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The event also included video messages from those who could not attend in person. Jennifer Love Hewitt, who was 13 when she starred in the sequel, shared her gratitude for the experience. “Working on the movie was one of the greatest things that ever happened to me,” she said. “I got to work with the queen, Whoopi Goldberg. She was the kindest, coolest person to me ever.”
Hewitt reminisced about listening to Lauryn Hill sing daily on set and expressed her desire to participate in a potential “Sister Act 3.” “If you guys need me in No. 3, just call me up!” she said.
Goldberg has been vocal about her interest in making “Sister Act 3,” which has been in development for years. In 2018, Regina Hicks and Karin Gist were hired to write the sequel. In 2022, Goldberg expressed her interest in casting Keke Palmer and Lizzo. “I want as many people who want to have some fun because I really, desperately need to have some fun,” Goldberg said, mentioning her collaboration with Tyler Perry to develop the sequel, with a script expected soon.
Watch clips from Goldberg’s “Sister Act 2” 30th anniversary reunion on “The View” in the posts below.
