Houston and Costner in The Bodyguard
By Mark Hodge (doddleNEWS)
The world of showbiz usually knows exactly when to cash in it’s chips- and there is no better time than when a star dies prematurely.
And, singing sensation Whitney Houston is no different, with the news that the London West End stage musical of her film The Bodyguard will open in November.
Pre-production on the musical started last year, however work has speeded up and the start date has been pushed forward to capitalise on the increasing morbid curiosity of Houston’s life.
It’s no secret that dying prematurely can be the best thing, financially speaking, that can happen to a mega star.
Michael Jackson, who had transformed from pop sensation to a freakish recluse, saw his record sales and assets sore when he died from an overdose of drugs back in 2009.
Atonishingly, Jackson earned over $1billion in the year following his death.
Unfortunately for Houston’s family, the star never actually wrote any of her hits, so they aren’t expected to cash in like the Jacksons.
It is the record companies, song writers (such as Dolly Parton who wrote the smash hit I Will Always Love You) and producers of such musicals that will earn hundreds of millions.
The Bodyguard film, which was released in 1992 is a weak piece of fluff, however at the time it gross over $400 million, partly due to the star power of Houston and her co star Kevin Costner.
At Houston’s funeral, Costner, who also produced the film, praised the talent of the late singer.
He said: “”A lot of leading men could have played my part, but you, Whitney, I truly believe, you were the only one who could have played Rachel Marin.
“Escorted by an army of angels to your heavenly father. And when you sing before him, don’t you worry. You’ll be good enough.”
It is worth noting that Costner also experienced a career tumble soon after the film. Although none as spectacular as Whitney.
He will not be involved with the musical adaptation. Director Thea Sharrock and producers David Ian and Michael Harrison will take charge.
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