In a candid revelation, Whitney Houston’s former bodyguard, David Roberts, shares a moment from the past when his professional boundaries were put to the test.
David Roberts, a former police officer from Wales who served as Whitney Houston’s bodyguard from 1988 to 1995, recently opened up about his time with the iconic singer. The 1992 film ‘The Bodyguard’ was loosely based on their real-life dynamic, highlighting a complex relationship. While promoting his memoir ‘Protecting Whitney,’ Roberts confessed to the Daily Mail about a moment when his feelings for Houston nearly crossed professional lines. One evening, as Houston rested her head on his shoulder, Roberts admits he was tempted to ‘give up everything’ to change the nature of their relationship.
Roberts emphasized that maintaining objectivity was crucial for Houston’s safety, paralleling the fictional story of Frank Farmer and Rachel Marron in ‘The Bodyguard.’ He explained that once a protector crosses the line, it jeopardizes the security of the person they’re meant to protect. Like the characters in the movie, Roberts and Houston experienced intense fan interactions, including Whitney holding onto the back of Roberts’ shirt to escape crowds—details that found their way into the movie.
Living in Florida now, Roberts recounts the numerous security threats Houston faced, often from men who felt embittered or abandoned. His role was to constantly assess these risks and protect Houston at all costs. The challenge was never letting a potentially dangerous individual get close to the singer, as even a seemingly innocent fan could pose a threat.
Reflecting on his initial reluctance to take the job, Roberts recalled how his stereotype of the high-maintenance celebrity was shattered upon meeting Houston. Instead, he found her to be a sophisticated and warm individual, far from the industry archetype he expected. This positive impression was overshadowed by his anger over her tragic death in 2012, which he feels could have been prevented if not for the greed of others.
Aside from his professional obligations, Roberts holds onto personal memories—such as a faded Post-it note Houston slipped under his door in Hong Kong in 1988. This memento serves as a reminder of a profound yet strictly professional connection.
David Roberts’ reflections provide a glimpse into the personal and professional challenges of protecting a superstar like Whitney Houston, blending duty with moments of intimate human connection. His stories remind us of the complex layers behind celebrity lives and the sometimes blurred lines in relationships built on both trust and respect.
Source: Yahoo
