Loretta Devine Recalls Whitney Houston Coming to the “Waiting to Exhale” Set with Bobby Kristina: ‘We Miss Her Dearly’ (Exclusive)

In the more than three decades since its release, “Waiting to Exhale” remains etched in the memories of both its audience and its cast, particularly Loretta Devine. The acclaimed actress has shared cherished reflections on her time filming the iconic movie that first premiered in 1995, revealing how their camaraderie contributed to the film’s success.

“Waiting to Exhale,” directed by Forest Whitaker, featured a star-studded ensemble that included Angela Bassett, Lela Rochon, and the legendary Whitney Houston. Upon its debut, the film was a remarkable triumph, grossing an impressive $81 million worldwide, securing its status as a classic in cinematic history.

Devine, during a recent appearance at the “Hollywood Confidential x Loretta Devine: A Moment to Exhale with Our Dreamgirl” event at the Saban Theatre, recounted the three months the cast spent filming in Arizona. The actress described this period as particularly joyous, stating, “It was just so much fun.” She noted the excitement surrounding the adaptation of Terry McMillan’s bestselling novel, expressing how every cast member was eager to bring their character to life.

The audition process was a daunting experience for Devine, who was excited yet nervous about being part of such a significant project. “A lot of people said, ‘You didn’t have to audition.’ Yes, I did,” she recalled, reminiscing about those nerve-wracking moments. The anticipation of working alongside such talented co-stars heightened her feelings of anxiety and exhilaration.

Among the fondest memories for Devine was sharing the set with Whitney Houston, who at the time was also a devoted mother to her young daughter, Bobbi Kristina. Devine fondly remembered moments when Houston would carry her baby on her hips while seamlessly immersing herself in the process of character development. “Whitney’s baby was on her leg all the time because she was so tiny,” Devine shared, reflecting on Houston’s dual role as a mother and actress.

Houston’s desire to learn and grow as an actress resonated with Devine and the others, as they all shared their expertise with the superstar. Devine noted the energy that came from working alongside accomplished actresses like Angela Bassett, stating, “You learn so much from just being around that kind of energy.” The dynamic was imbued with inspiration, as Houston frequently sought guidance from her fellow cast members.

Recollecting the profound bond formed during those months, Devine expressed how the cast truly became like sisters. Lela Rochon, who portrayed Robin in the film, made a surprise appearance at the recent event, echoing Devine’s sentiments. “We had a lot of fun. Every job is not like that, and this particular job, we all really liked each other,” Rochon said. She added that their connection extended beyond the film set, as the group often gathered in one another’s apartments in Arizona during their downtime.

The success of “Waiting to Exhale” was not limited to its box office performance; the accompanying soundtrack also received critical acclaim. Houston’s rendition of the theme song “Exhale (Shoop Shoop),” produced by Babyface, earned four Grammy nominations and won the award for Best R&B Song in 1997, solidifying Houston’s legendary status in the music industry.

Reflecting on the enduring appeal of “Waiting to Exhale,” Devine attributed its lasting impact to its authentic portrayal of lifelong friendships among women. “So many young women keep their friends forever. The friendships that begin in high school or college often continue for a lifetime,” she explained. Devine believes that such relationships are integral to building families and communities, which is why the film continues to resonate with audiences decades later.

In an era marked by transient connections, “Waiting to Exhale” serves as a testament to the power of sisterhood and deep, abiding friendships. Through shared experiences, laughter, and love, Devine and her fellow cast members created a film that not only entertained but also inspired viewers to cherish their relationships with one another. As Devine concluded, the camaraderie established during the making of the film remains a cherished memory, demonstrating how significant connections can create a legacy that endures through time.