Whitney Houston’s mother Cissy Houston has remained relatively silent ever since the announcement that Angela Bassett would direct a biopic on the late singer for Lifetime. But now, the former gospel singer says her family is “exhausted” by “the continuing misinformation and comments offered by people who did not know [Whitney].”
“In the two years since Whitney’s death, many people have stepped forward to speak about their close relationship with her,” Houston said in a statement to Entertainment Tonight. “I find it difficult to believe people who knew and supposedly loved her would participate in a movie about her done by folks who didn’t know her. We are exhausted by the continuing misinformation and comments offered by people who did not know her.”
“Please please let her rest,” she concluded.
Whitney’s family has also been vocal about their disapproval of the film. Shortly after the announcement, family members balked at the idea of having Whitney’s life played out in a TV film. “Whitney is certainly worthy of more than a television movie. If Whitney were here today, this would not be happening,” said her sister-in-law Pat Houston.
Daughter Bobbi Kristina also took to Twitter earlier last month to denounce Bassett’s decision not to cast her in the lead role. “MsAng “bassketcase” has such a damn nerve,” she tweeted. “At least the world doesn’t mistake me for the wrong sex.” (We’re filing that one in the highly disrespectful category)
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Bassett said her reasons had to do with the fact that Bobbi Kristina is 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,” said Bassett, adding that the biopic would be respectful of Whitney’s story and legacy.
“We care about the humanity of this woman and man, telling their story,” she said.