Kevin Costner Celebrates His 70th Birthday

As the beloved actor Kevin Costner celebrates his milestone 70th birthday on January 18, he takes a heartfelt moment to remember his late co-star, Whitney Houston, whose profound impact on the world is still felt today.

A Nostalgic Tribute

Costner took to Instagram to share a nostalgic behind-the-scenes photo from their classic film, *The Bodyguard*, which debuted in 1992. The image, originally posted on Houston’s official account managed by her estate, features the two stars alongside stylist Ellin LaVar, capturing a moment that showcases their camaraderie during the iconic project.

A Heartfelt Message

In his touching post, Costner expressed gratitude for his life and the opportunity to celebrate another year. He poignantly remarked, “This photo reminds me of how lucky I am to be getting another birthday. We lost such a light when we lost Whitney.” Her untimely passing at the age of 48 in 2012 left a significant void in the hearts of fans and fellow artists alike. Had she lived, Houston would have celebrated her 61st birthday this year.

Deep Connection

Their connection ran deep, as Costner not only shared the screen with Houston but also delivered a powerful eulogy at her funeral. In statements made during a June 2024 interview, he revealed how he was adamant about honoring her memory during the service, refusing to shorten his 17-minute tribute to accommodate commercial breaks for networks like CNN. “I said, ‘They can get over that. They can play the commercial while I’m talking, I don’t care,’” he recalled, emphasizing the weight of his responsibility to honor her legacy.

Memories of an Electric Funeral

Costner vividly reminisced about the electric atmosphere at Houston’s Newark church funeral, where he felt a collective sense of love and loss. 'It was electric. There were two bands playing; the church was alive. It was like, boom!' With emotions still fresh and palpable, he acknowledged the challenge of encapsulating the spirit of such an impactful artist, who brought joy and inspiration to millions around the world.

A Celebration of Legacy

As Costner blows out the candles on his birthday cake this year, fans and friends alike will not only celebrate the man he has become but also remember one of his most cherished co-stars, Whitney Houston—a true legend whose light still shines brightly in the hearts of many.