It’s hard to imagine anyone else playing the iconic role of superstar singer Rachel Marron in the hit movie “The Bodyguard” besides the remarkable Whitney Houston.
Not only was Whitney a pop sensation in her own right, but she also had the talent and real-life experience to bring to the film. Her incredible voice transformed the soundtrack into the best-selling soundtrack of all time, a record that still stands today. Kevin Costner, her co-star in the film, revealed why Whitney was his top choice for the role, beating out actresses like Julia Roberts and Michelle Pfeiffer in a recent interview with Howard Stern.
While there were doubts about Whitney’s acting abilities, Kevin shared that she was the obvious choice for him. He saw her as the most beautiful girl with an amazing singing talent. Despite her lack of prior acting experience, he believed that Whitney had the potential to shine in the role. Kevin took an active role behind the scenes, not only choosing Whitney for the part but also selecting the director, Mick Jackson.
On set, Kevin became a real-life bodyguard for Whitney, offering her support and protection. He assured her that if she ever felt uncertain, he would be there to guide her and make everything right. Despite the studios’ initial shock at his decision to cast a newcomer instead of an experienced actress, Kevin had unwavering faith in Whitney’s abilities. He saw it as a natural choice and not a risk at all.
In addition to her acting skills, Kevin also suggested that Whitney sing “I Will Always Love You” a-cappella in the film to convey her character’s vulnerability and showcase her love for his character, Frank Farmer. This decision proved to be a stroke of genius, as the song became a worldwide sensation and remains one of Whitney’s most iconic performances.
Kevin and Whitney’s bond extended beyond the movie set, as they became close friends. He even delivered a heartfelt eulogy at her funeral, refusing to shorten his 17-minute speech despite pressure from national broadcasters.
Whitney Houston’s portrayal of Rachel Marron in “The Bodyguard” will forever be remembered as a defining moment in her career. Her undeniable talent and the chemistry she shared with Kevin Costner made the film a timeless classic beloved by audiences of all ages.
