The actress, Naomi Ackie, depicts the late superstar Whitney Houston in an upcoming biopic set to release nationwide on Dec. 23. The film Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody tells the untold aspects of Houston’s struggles in her personal life and acclaimed musical career. Ackie told The Hollywood Reporter that she wanted to make sure she hit the right balance between the two, admitting that, at times, it was a challenge, but she was able to get help and support from Houston’s family for the role.

Ackie co-stars with Stanley Tucci (Julie and Julia), who plays Houston’s manager, Clive Davis, and has nothing but good things to say about her work and professionalism in the film. Tucci called Ackie’s performance “staggering,” adding, “I’ve worked with a lot of actors, and she’s one of the best I’ve ever seen.”

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Davis is a co-producer on the film and also praised Ackie for her portrayal of Houston. Houston died tragically in a bathtub at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Cocaine was in her system, and she was diagnosed with heart failure. The singer’s voice deteriorated throughout her career due to her drug use and heavy drinking. Her music has sold over 200 million copies worldwide.

Clive Davis Behind The Scenes and On the Screen in I Wanna Dance With Somebody

     Sony Pictures

The new biopic about Whitney Houston will feature many key people in her life and career. Most notably, Clive Davis, a record producer, and Houston’s long-time collaborator. Davis was a figure in her life from the very early days of her career and signed her to Arista Records when she was only 19. They remained close friends until her death when she was 48. Davis, one of the most successful music executives of all time, was instrumental in producing the film and worked closely with Houston’s manager and sister-in-law, Pat Houston.

Pat has said, “Clive Davis is one of those people in Whitney’s life that she totally respected. There is nothing that he would do to embarrass her or to bring negativity. He loved Whitney and loved her craft and knew how special she was.”

Owens is portrayed in the film by Stanley Tucci, who communicated with Davis prior to the production of the movie in order to do his due diligence for the role. I Wanna Dance With Somebody arrives exclusively in theaters later this month, premiering on Dec. 23.