Kevin Costner remembered Whitney Houston on his 70th birthday, January 18, while sharing memories of their work in the 1992 film The Bodyguard. Through an Instagram Story, Costner commented on a behind-the-scenes photo from the movie set that appeared on Houston’s official account, which her estate now runs.
“This photo makes me think about each birthday I receive,” Costner wrote. “Whitney’s death left an empty space.” The image showed them with Houston’s hairstylist Ellin LaVar during their time making the Warner Bros. hit movie.
The Bodyguard became a standout romantic drama. Costner acted as Frank Farmer, who left the Secret Service to guard pop star Rachel Marron, played by Houston, against a stalker. The movie mixed suspense with romance, drew large audiences, and helped Houston become both a music and film star.
Houston died in 2012 at 48 years old. Costner often speaks about their friendship and his appreciation of her skills and character. In recent discussions, he talked about speaking at Houston’s memorial service in Newark, New Jersey. His 17-minute speech showed their friendship and his regard for her work.
“The church experience was electric,” Costner said. “Two bands played… everything moved with energy. It was like, boom!” People suggested he make his speech short for TV timing, but he refused. “I traveled far to speak about this little girl,” he said. “TV can pause for ads—I will say everything I want.”
His memorial speech and birthday message show how Houston touched people who met and worked with her. “She carried heavy responsibility then,” he said about making The Bodyguard. “I must keep her memory alive now.”
Costner’s birthday marks fresh beginnings and brings up memories of relationships in his life, including his time with Houston. Their movie stays in people’s hearts, showing how her work still affects audiences.
