NEW STILL FROM "SPARKLE": MUSICAL OUT AUGUST 2012

Still from Sparkle

After several delays, it looks like Sparkle finally will see a release August 10, 2012 via Sony Pictures. Fans of 2006's Dreamgirls will be excited as the Musical also is based loosely on the story of The Supremes and also a 1976 Film of the same name.

Directed by Sam Akil and scored by Curtis Mayfield with new Music by R. Kelly, Sparkle centers around three sisters and the trials and tribulations of Fame. Houston not only stars in this her first role in 15 years, but also serves as Executive Producer in the Detroit-filmed production. Aaliyah originally was to play the role of Sparkle, now played by American Idol Winner, Jordin Sparks.  "We had our Sparkle, but God wanted her more. We just put it down.", says Houston. "Jordin Sparks just came up and we were like, okay.  And everything just started to come into play.".  Houston credits her Daughter Bobbi Kristina for preparing her well for the role of the Mother (Emma) in the Film.

See Houston's Interview with EXTRA back in November:

(Photo credit: Sony Pictures | Video credit: Warner Bros. Television)