Some news outlets reported that Brown was turned away at the door, while others said he entered the service, paid his respects and left.
Last night, Brown released the following statement to explain what happened:
“My children and I were invited to the funeral of my ex-wife Whitney Houston. We were seated by security and then subsequently asked to move on three separate occasions. I fail to understand why security treated my family this way and continue to ask us and no one else to move. Security then prevented me from attempting to see my daughter Bobbi-Kristina. In light of the events, I gave a kiss to the casket of my ex-wife and departed as I refused to create a scene. My children are completely distraught over the events. This was a day to honor Whitney. I doubt Whitney would have wanted this to occur. I will continue to pay my respects to my ex-wife the best way I know how.”
CNN is reporting that Brown was expected to bring two guests to the funeral, but arrived with ten. Trying to accommodate the group, security workers allowed Brown to sit in the space reserved for family but asked that the remainder of his party sit in a separate section. Brown declined, and he and his group left.
Later that night, Brown performed with New Edition at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut. In the middle of the performance, he took a moment to say goodbye to his ex.
“I wanna give blessings to my ex-wife Whitney Houston. I love you,” he said, and pointed to the sky.