Lifetime’s upcoming Whitney Houston biopic has cast Yolonda Ross to play the “Bodyguard” actress’ longtime friend and rumored lesbian lover, Robyn Crawford.
The description for the role describes Robyn as “the loyal friend and confidante to Whitney who helped manage her business affairs.”
Also read: Yaya DaCosta Cast as Whitney Houston in Lifetime TV Movie
The two met at age 16 during a summer job in East Orange, N.J. and soon began an alleged romantic relationship. Crawford later became Houston’s personal assistant. According to reports, “The Greatest Love of All” singer had to break up with Crawford to marry fellow R&B musician Bobby Brown in 1992.
Ross joins former “America’s Next Top Model” contender-turned-actress Yaya DaCosta, who will play Houston.
Directed by Angela Bassett, the TV movie will focus on the singer’s rise to stardom and her stormy relationship with Brown. It’s set to air in 2015.
Also read: Aaliyah Biopic Starring Zendaya in the Works at Lifetime
Ross, who earned an Independent Spirit Award nomination for her supporting turn in John Sayles‘ “Go for Sisters,” recently wrapped the indie movie “Lila & Eve” with Jennifer Lopez and Viola Davis. She’s repped by Sanders Armstrong Caserta Management.