A film about the life and times of the late Whitney Houston is currently in the works and there are some surprising candidates for the lead role. According to reports, Rihanna, Jennifer Hudson, Vivica Fox, Jordin Sparks and Willow Smith are all in the running to play Houston at different points in her life. The Daily Mail reported Monday that the project is being spearheaded by music executive Clive Davis, Houston’s mentor.

Although movie executives are hoping Riri will sign up for the film, the Talk That Talk singer already turned down the chance to remake Houston’s The Bodyguard last year.

She told OK! magazine: ‘I hate it when singers do singing movies all the time, because you can never look at them as anybody else. I want to play a character. My whole life is playing Rihanna; being a singer won’t be a stretch for me.’

The superstar’s life story had been discussed before her death and the I Will Always Love You singer was excited about the project.

A source told the People newspaper: ‘Whitney knew about the project and was excited to see where it would lead.

‘It’s hoped the biopic will be as successful as Tina Turner movie What’s Love Got To Do With It, which landed two Oscar nominations for Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne who played Tina and Ike Turner.’

Click here to read more.