2004: Nippy News Release Articles

And We Will Always Love Hou(ston)
submitted by: Lisa D.
source: Extra, Entertainment Tonight
Date: March 22, 2004

He played her "Bodyguard" in the movies, but now Kevin Costner is just happy to be Whitney Houston’s friend and supporter.

"Extra" caught up with Costner at a charity golf tournament thrown by Los Angeles radio station KLOS. The "Tin Cup" star signed autographs for the fans and wowed them with his game, but his thoughts were with his dear friend.

"It’s time Whitney takes care of herself, and it’s time we take care of Whitney," Costner told us. "What’s important is how she hears how many people really do care about her and what she’s given."

And Kevin’s not the only star standing up for Houston. "West Wing's" Martin Sheen also had a very personal message for Whitney: "I've been there. As you know, one of my kids has been there. Just get close to yourself. The only thing that can hurt you is your secrets."

At the "Scooby Doo 2" premiere, Ruben Studdard told us that Houston is going to beat her addiction. "I'm a big fan of hers and she's going to do great. She always does."

And at the Shane's Inspiration charity event, Sunday, Paula Abdul also spoke from the heart about Houston, and may have summed up best what all of Houston’s fans are feeling: "I want her to have inner-peace. I want her to get healthy so her fans, me included, can see the joy in her face again."

Janet, Whitney Buzz at Soul Train Awards

Beyoncé looked beautiful, Michelle Williams appeared angelic in Armani, Usher brought along some style, and Sleepy Brown was wide-awake to see Janet Jackson.

Wearing a dazzling, low-cut, midriff-revealing white outfit, Jackson stole the Soul Train Awards, and brought the supportive crowd to its feet. She accepted a Career Achievement Award by thanking her fans, saying, "Your loving support has always been a great source of comfort, especially in these last few weeks."

Outkast was the night's big double award winner and R. Kelly inspired the crowd with his ironically-chosen song, "You Saved Me." Earlier this month, a Florida court dropped charges of child pornography against Kelly, which the music mogul mentioned after his performance. "It felt good," Kelly told us. "I thought this was a special time to do this song."

Beyoncé took home the Female Album Award. And her band mate, Michelle Williams, sent both her and Whitney Houston, who entered rehab last week, messages of luck: "Whitney, I love you. We’re praying for you."

Houston was on the minds of many attendees, from Usher, who said, "She’ll be fine," to Ruben Studdard, who admitted, "She's always been a superstar in my heart. I'm a big fan, and I hope she gets better."

Inside the Soul Train Awards!

JANET JACKSON received a career achievement honor while Hollywood had lots of heart and soul for WHITNEY HOUSTON on Saturday night at the Soul Train Music Awards as stars sent their best wishes to the singer, who's currently in rehab.

"My heart goes out to her as always," said R&B sensation USHER. "She is one of the greatest vocalists that we've ever had, and I hope that her personal struggles are taken care of and that she's fine in the end."

'Kill Bill' star VIVICA FOX said, "I offer her, another sister, 110 percent of my support. We will be here for her with open arms when she gets out. She's a very talented woman and we're not gonna turn our back on her. She has problems, just like all of us do, and I'm glad that she was woman enough to face them."