Whoopi Goldberg is in a tizzy over a supposed snub by the New York Times. Speaking on The View, the afternoon talkfest on US TV, Ms Goldberg came over all sad while reflecting on an article examining the history of black actors at the Oscars. Jamie Foxx, Forest Whitaker and Jennifer Hudson were name- checked, but Whoopi's name was conspicuous by its absence.

"I am embarrassed to tell you it hurt me terribly," Goldberg said. "When you win an Academy Award, that's part of what you've done, your legacy. I will always be Academy Award-winner Whoopi Goldberg, and have been dismissed and erased by the New York Timesfilm critics, who should know better."

However, the Timeswas unrepentant. A statement read: "The point of the piece was not to name every black actor or actress who has been awarded an Oscar." Seems fair enough.

Critics have noted that there is, this year, not a single African-American among the acting and directing nominees.