Stage Version of Costner/Houston Flick The Bodyguard in the Works

A musical stage adaptation of Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner’s 1992 film collaboration The Bodyguard, which turned the song “I Will Always Love You” into a bestselling single, is in the works, according to London’s Daily Mail. British producer David Ian is rumored to be negotiating stage rights from original film star and co-producer Costner, though no official details have been confirmed. The Bodyguard adaptation is eyeing a 2012 bow in London.

The Bodyguard starred Houston as soul-singing diva and film star Rachel Marron, who hires a former U.S. Secret Service agent, Frank Farmer, (Costner) as her personal bodyguard for protection from an obsessed and violent fan. In addition to “I Will Always Love You,” which was written by 9 to 5 composer Dolly Parton, the movie features the songs “I’m Every Woman,” “Run To You,” “I Have Nothing,” “Queen of the Night” and “Jesus Loves Me,” all sung by platinum-selling artist Houston. Additional numbers on the soundtrack include Joe Cocker’s “Trust In Me” and Soul System’s “It’s Gonna Be A Lovely Day.” The numbers are expected to be a part of the stage adaptation.

The film, which was nominated for two Academy Awards (for Best Original Song for “I Have Nothing” and “Run to You”), grossed over $410 million worldwide.

Earlier in this spring, there were rumors that pop star Rihanna was in talks to star in a film remake of the original opposite GI Joe leading man Channing Tatum.