Terrence then claimed that, during a visit to late music producer Quincy Jones's house, he heard a rumor that changed his perspective when it came to taking on the role.

Actor Terrence Howard revealed that he refused to portray Marvin Gaye in a potential film because of the Motown singer's rumored homosexuality, saying he'd cut his lips off if he ever kissed a man.

Terrence Howard passed on Marvin Gaye biopic after finding out he'd have to kiss a man on screen: 'I don't fake it' Shania Russell April 28, 2025 Kayla Oaddams/WireImage Terrence Howard ...

Actor Terrence Howard revealed that he refused to portray Marvin Gaye in a potential film because of the Motown singer's rumored homosexuality, saying he'd cut his lips off if he ever kissed a man.

Actor Terrence Howard revealed that he refused to portray Marvin Gaye in a potential film because of the Motown singer's rumored homosexuality, saying he'd cut his lips off if he ever kissed a man.

Terrence Howard Says He’d ‘Cut Off’ His Lips If He Had To Kiss Man, Rejected Marvin Gaye Role To Avoid It Like Baila Eve Zisman April 29, 2025, 2:27 pm ...

In a 2018 interview with Vulture, the late Quincy Jones appeared to confirm that Gaye once had a relationship with Hollywood star Marlon Brando.

However, Howard ultimately declined that opportunity, citing personal discomfort with portraying aspects of Gaye’s life. He said a conversation with Quincy Jones influenced his decision.

However, Howard grew concerned when he heard rumors about Marvin — who married twice and had three children before being shot dead by his father in 1984 at the age of 44 — and his sexuality.

Howard maintained that his stance isn’t intended to be homophobic. “It does not make me homophobic to not want to kiss a man. I can’t play that character 100 percent,” he said.

Terrence Howard discusses a time he turned down playing Marvin Gaye in a biopic, originally in the works with director Lee Daniels. Kay Wicker Apr 30, 2025 ...