Back in June, the producers of Lifetimes' Whitney Houston biopic announced that former America's Next Top Model contestant, Yaya DaCosta, would star as the lead role. The network recently offered up its first look at the film with an exclusive trailer.
Rap-Up notes the film is set to premiere in January on the third anniversary of the singer's death. The one-minute trailer bids a glimpse at Houston's turbulent life including her rocky relationship with New Edition singer Bobby Brown and a deadly battle with drugs.
Arlen Escarpeta will play the role of Brown. Houston's vocal performances in the film are sung by Deborah Cox. The film will serve as actress Angela Bassett's directorial debut.
"I have such regard for both Whitney's and Bobby's amazing talents and accomplishments, and I feel a responsibility in the telling of their story," Bassett said in a statement. "Their humanity and bond fascinates us all. I'm beyond excited to have this opportunity to go behind the camera and into their world."
Bassett and Houston starred in the 1995 film, Waiting To Exhale, together.
Following the announcement of DaCosta's part, Houston's daughter, Bobbi Kristina, blasted Bassett on social media for not giving her the role.
During an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Bassett opened up about her decision not to cast Bobbi Kristina, implying that she wasn't well-equipped for the part.
"No, I did not think about that. I did not think about casting her. And probably for a number of reasons, you know. One being that she's not an actress. I know she's acted here and there. I know she's been on their family's reality show, but she's not an actress and acting is a craft."
Whitney premieres January 17 at 8 p.m. Watch the trailer below and let us know your thoughts in the comment section.
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