Kevin Costner reflects on his special bond with Whitney Houston during 'The Bodyguard' tribute

Kevin Costner shared a story about Whitney Houston on a podcast. He talked about feeling pressured to give a tribute at her funeral. Costner didn't want to speak, but he ended up crafting a 17-minute speech. He felt out of place in the crowded church. Someone asked him to shorten his speech because CNN was there. Costner didn't feel like the right person to speak, but he did it anyway. Costner starred in and produced the movie "The Bodyguard" with Houston. He felt a special connection with her. Costner saw Houston on TV and knew he wanted her in the movie. He promised to take care of her on set. They became friends until Houston's accidental death. Costner was asked to speak at her memorial, which he didn't want to do. He wrote a speech and delivered it at the electric church. Costner revealed that he worked closely with Houston on the movie because the director was "afraid" of her. The film got nominated for two Academy Awards for best original song. Costner shared that he made a promise to Houston to support her during filming. He reflected on their special bond and the eulogy he gave at her funeral. Houston's cause of death was reported as accidental drowning due to heart disease and cocaine abuse.