At 69, Kevin Costner recently opened up about his deep connection with the late Whitney Houston, a relationship that has been the subject of speculation and intrigue over the years. Their bond was highlighted during Houston’s funeral, where Costner delivered a heartfelt eulogy that resonated with many.

Costner and Houston first collaborated in the iconic film *The Bodyguard* (1992), a romantic drama that became a cultural phenomenon. Interestingly, the film was not initially meant for them; it was rejected 67 times before Costner, then an emerging star after *Dances with Wolves*, pushed for Houston to be cast as his co-star. At the time, Houston was primarily known for her singing career and was hesitant to take on such a high-profile acting role.

In his eulogy, Costner recalled the challenges Houston faced leading up to her audition for *The Bodyguard*. He described how she doubted herself, feeling inadequate despite being one of the world’s biggest pop stars. Costner poignantly shared that he wanted to reassure her, even considering the idea of “rigging” the audition to ensure her success. However, he ultimately decided against it, wanting her to earn the role on her own merit.

Houston’s performance in *The Bodyguard* not only launched her acting career but also solidified her legacy in film. The movie grossed nearly half a billion dollars globally, and Costner credited Houston with the magic that made the film a success. He emphasized her talent, stating, “Whitney, if you could hear me now, I would tell you you weren’t just good enough; you were great.”

During the eulogy, Costner also revealed that the song “I Will Always Love You,” which became synonymous with Houston, was not originally intended for the film. The initial choice was a different song, but Houston’s rendition transformed it into an unforgettable classic.

Their connection extended beyond professional collaboration. Costner reminisced about their shared experiences growing up in the Baptist church, where they exchanged stories and laughter. He spoke fondly of their bond, which allowed them to relate to each other in a way that few others could.

After Houston’s tragic passing in February 2012, Costner expressed his sorrow on social media, calling her his “one true love.” He later elaborated on this sentiment, revealing that he had written letters to Houston during her struggles with addiction, hoping to offer his support. Unfortunately, those letters went unanswered, leaving him with a sense of unresolved concern for her well-being.