American Actor ‘Terrence Howard’ Refuses Gay Role in Marvin Gaye Film – ‘Not My Truth’

American actor Terrence Howard has revealed that he turned down the opportunity to star in a Marvin Gaye biopic, citing discomfort with a same-sex kiss required in the script.

Speaking on Bill Maher’s “Club Random” podcast, the actor who played Lucius Lyon in Empire Tv Series, said the film, reportedly directed by Lee Daniels, included a scene in which Gaye was portrayed engaging in a romantic relationship with another man. Howard said he was told by music legend Quincy Jones that Gaye was gay, which the biopic aimed to explore.

However, Howard expressed that he could not bring himself to perform the role authentically.

“I don’t fake it,” Howard said. “That would f*** me. I would cut my lips off. If I kissed some man, I would cut my lips off.”

Despite the strong language, Howard emphasized he is not homophobic, but said the role required emotional and psychological surrender that he could not fully commit to.

“I can’t play that character 100 percent. I can’t surrender myself to a place that I don’t understand,” he added.

The Marvin Gaye biopic has long been in development, with various directors and actors attached over the years. It remains unclear whether Daniels’ version is still moving forward or who might take over the lead role following Howard’s refusal.

Gaye, an iconic Motown artist behind hits like “What’s Going On” and “Sexual Healing,” has been the subject of much speculation regarding his personal life, though it remains a sensitive and disputed topic among fans and historians.