**Denzel Washington JUST CONFIRMED What We Thought About Whitney All Along**

At the height of her fame as a singer, Whitney Houston was cast as Denzel Washington’s co-star in the 1996 film “The Preacher’s Wife.” Directed by the late Penny Marshall, this remake of the 1947 Christmas movie “The Bishop’s Wife” centered on a struggling Baptist pastor, played by Courtney B. Vance, and an angel, portrayed by Washington, who ends up focusing more on the pastor’s wife, Julia, played by Houston. Despite this being her first acting role, Washington believed Whitney was perfect for the part.

Reflecting on their time together at the American Black Film Festival, Washington revealed his deep sense of protection towards Whitney. He shared, “I always felt like I wanted to protect her. She wanted to be so tough, but she really wasn’t.” This sentiment was echoed by Chaz Ebert, widow of film critic Roger Ebert, who noted Whitney’s vulnerability that Washington picked up on.

“The Preacher’s Wife” also starred notable talents like Jennifer Lewis, Gregory Hines, and Whitney’s mother, Cissy Houston. During filming, Whitney developed close friendships with the cast, particularly impacting Vance, who described working with her as a euphoric experience that significantly influenced his career.

Interestingly, Whitney was not the first choice for the role in “The Preacher’s Wife.” Hollywood’s initial preference leaned towards a white cast, but Washington and others intervened to ensure Whitney got the role. This revelation was confirmed by her friend and “The Bodyguard” co-star, Kevin Costner. Costner, who starred opposite Whitney in the 1992 classic film, reflected on their relationship during an appearance on the “Armchair Expert” podcast.

“The Bodyguard,” where Whitney played a famous singer with a stalker who falls in love with her bodyguard (Costner), was a significant success, earning $410 million worldwide. Costner insisted on Whitney for the role despite the director’s reservations, believing she was perfect for the part. He promised Whitney she’d be good in the movie, a promise he felt deeply about and one that helped solidify their bond.

Their close relationship was evident as Costner was asked to deliver a eulogy at Whitney’s funeral in 2012. Initially hesitant, he accepted at the urging of Dionne Warwick. His heartfelt eulogy recalled their bond and the weight of fulfilling his promise to her, making a lasting impression.

Whitney’s performance in “The Bodyguard” and its soundtrack, particularly her rendition of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You,” remains iconic. The soundtrack became the best-selling of all time, going platinum 18 times and earning Grammy Awards for Album of the Year and Record of the Year in 1994.

In retrospect, Washington’s and Costner’s reflections reveal a side of Whitney that was vulnerable and deeply human, contrasting her public image as a tough diva. Their stories highlight the challenges she faced and the deep connections she formed with those who supported her, emphasizing the impact she had on her colleagues and the enduring legacy she left behind.