The Insider.com

Plans for a remake of the 1976 film Sparkle were scrapped with the tragic death of R&B superstar Aaliyah, who was the project's first choice as the lead. 10 years later, American Idol winner Jordin Sparks takes on the legendary role and co-star Whitney Houston says it couldn't be a more "perfect" fit.

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"God has his own time," Whitney explained of their lengthy search to find an actress who could live up to what the late singer would have brought to the role. Houston worked closely with the project's producers since 2001, making a mutual decision to halt production until they could find talent worthy to fill Aaliyah's shoes.

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And then they found Jordin.

"[Jordin's] just really, just perfect," Whitney raved. "She's truly, truly embraced the role and doing such a marvelous job and just putting herself into it and just her voice is gorgeous."

Watch the video to hear more from Houston and Jordin, plus, check out a behind-the-scenes peek of the film, coming to theaters next year.

Sparkle also stars Cee Lo Green, Mike Epps and Derek Luke.

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