Terrence Howard Turned Down Marvin Gaye Biopic Because He Didn’t Want to Kiss a Man: ‘I Would Cut My Lips Off’

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Terrence Howard nearly took on the role in a movie about iconic soul artist Marvin Gaye, but there was a significant obstacle that prevented him from doing so.

In a recent conversation on “Bill Maher’s ‘Club Random’ podcast”, Howard admitted that refusing the lead role in a Smokey Robinson biopic, which the musician himself had requested of him, was his most significant career blunder.

Howard clarified that he had declined working with Robinson since he was currently engaged in discussions with Lee Daniels for the role of Marvin Gaye in another biographical film.

Maher endorsed Howard’s choice, expressing his view that Gaye’s biography was significantly intriguing. He further commented that Howard would have excelled in portraying Marvin Gaye, a role he believes deserves to be brought to light on screen.

Nevertheless, Howard also didn’t get involved in the Gaye biopic. He declined the opportunity to participate following his discovery of Gaye’s sexual orientation, which he learned from renowned musician Quincy Jones.

Howard shared that he was at Quincy Jones’ place and asked Quincy about the rumors regarding Marvin’s sexual orientation. Howard inquired, ‘Is it true that Marvin was gay?’ To which Quincy replied affirmatively.

After that revelation, Howard decided he “could not” star in the movie.

He mentioned that they likely desired to take on that role, and in his case, he wouldn’t have been capable of doing so.

Maher inquired, “So, you wouldn’t act as if you were kissing a man on-screen in a film?” To which Howard replied, “No, because I don’t pretend or simulate such actions.

Howard remarked, ‘That would be quite distressing for me.’ He further stated, ‘If I ever found myself kissing a man, I would immediately remove my lips.’

Maher suggested that he might not share Howard’s discomfort, but he could sympathize with the reasons behind it. Later on, Howard clarified, “Just because I don’t want to kiss a man doesn’t mean I’m homophobic.

Howard explained that it was more a matter of committing to the role than anything else.

Howard admitted he couldn’t fully embody the character, as he wasn’t willing to immerse himself in a world he didn’t comprehend.

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2025-04-29 01:46