Terrence Howard’s shocking reason for turning down Marvin Gaye biopic: 'I would cut my lips off'

In a startling revelation, actor Terrence Howard has shared his decision to turn down the opportunity to portray music legend Marvin Gaye in a prospective biopic, citing his discomfort with the singer's rumoured homosexuality. 

In a candid conversation on Bill Maher’s "Club Random" podcast, the former "Empire" star went so far as to declare, “I would cut my lips off” if faced with the prospect of kissing a man, underscoring his deep-seated displeasure to stepping outside his comfort zone in a significant way. 

During the nearly two-hour discussion, Howard recounted a conversation with acclaimed producer Quincy Jones. "I was over at Quincy Jones' house ... I'm asking Quincy, 'I'm hearing rumours that Marvin was gay,'"

Howard recalled, reflecting on the moment when Jones confirmed the singer’s sexual orientation.

Despite Gaye's two marriages and his lack of openness regarding his sexuality, Howard appeared troubled by the implications of portraying a character that challenged his understanding of masculinity. 

This decision arose amidst talks with director Lee Daniels, who has a history of collaboration with Howard on the hit show "Empire”.

However, the much-anticipated biopic about Gaye’s life remains in limbo, with no confirmed project in sight.

Howard's comments raise questions about the portrayal of LGBTQ+ figures in mainstream media, particularly by actors who express a reluctance to engage with characters that challenge traditional masculinity.

In a segment of the podcast, Maher sympathised with Howard's stance, commenting, "It does not make me homophobic to not want to kiss a man," equating Howard’s feelings to those of many gay men who are uninterested in heterosexual relationships.

Yet the conversation swiftly escalated into a broader discussion, with many online voicing their concerns about Howard's remarks, describing them as "deeply problematic".

Critics expressed discomfort over what they interpreted as a reinforcement of harmful stereotypes surrounding masculinity and expressions of sexuality.

One user on the social media platform X noted, “How many times is Howard going to tell the world he is uncomfortable with his masculinity?”

This sentiment was echoed by others, pointing to Howard’s past allegations of domestic abuse as further complicating his commentary on gender and sexuality. “I’m having a hard time believing he likes women,” a fellow user remarked in response to the actor’s controversial statements.