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 ...

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.

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 ...

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.