Celebrating 30 Years of Waiting to Exhale: Cast Reflect on Their Cherished Memories with Whitney Houston
Lela Rochon, Angela Bassett and Loretta Devine today (left), Devine, Rochon, Whitney Houston, and Bassett in 1995’s "Waiting to Exhale".
Credit:
Gayle King/Instagram; Randee St. Nicholas/Twentieth Century Fox
Anniversary Celebration of Waiting to Exhale
As Waiting to Exhale approaches its 30th anniversary on December 22, the film’s cast—Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine, and Lela Rochon—reflected on the movie’s enduring legacy during a conversation with Gayle King on CBS Mornings. The film, released in 1995, features a powerful narrative centered on love and friendship among four African American women.
The actresses shared fond memories of their late co-star, Whitney Houston, who garnered a Grammy for the film’s soundtrack hit, "Exhale (Shoop Shoop)." "I think she would be proud," Rochon remarked, highlighting Houston’s significant impact on the film.
Bassett noted the profound experience of filming, particularly for Houston, who had often been in the spotlight alone. "I think it would have been one of the seminal experiences… to be able to share this moment with your girls," she said. Devine added, "She loved doing it. She had so much fun, and we had fun."
The actresses emphasized Houston’s commitment to the group dynamic, recalling instances during promotional events when outlets sought to interview only Houston and Bassett. "Whitney said, ‘No. We go as a group or we don’t go at all,’" Rochon shared, expressing her admiration for Houston’s solidarity.
Loretta Devine, Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, and Lela Rochon in "Waiting to Exhale".
Randee St. Nicholas/20th Century Fox
The conversation also touched on the challenges the film faced in addressing the experiences of Black women. "We burst through that," Bassett declared, emphasizing how the film’s authentic representation created a breakthrough for Black narratives in cinema.
Rochon added, "I knew it was special just because it was so unique… Whitney couldn’t make a flop." As the actresses discussed the film’s lasting impact, they noted its importance for empowering women. Devine remarked, "It makes… black women feel good about themselves," while Rochon emphasized the embrace of friendship as a central theme.
Bassett summed up the film’s enduring relevance by stating, "When you bring authenticity, it resonates. It travels, it lives, it breathes." As the anniversary approaches, the conversation serves as a reminder of Waiting to Exhale‘s legacy and its celebration of Black love and friendship.
Whitney Houston laughs in front of cameras at a 1994 event.
Vinnie Zuffante/Getty
Whitney Houston, Loretta Devine, Lela Rochon and Angela Bassett in "Waiting to Exhale".
Nicola Goode
As the women celebrated their shared history and the film’s impact, it was evident that Waiting to Exhale remains a significant landmark in cinematic history, empowering viewers and fostering a sense of community among women. The film is currently streaming on Hulu.
