In his newly released memoir, "Protecting Whitney," David Roberts, Whitney Houston's former bodyguard, shares intimate details about the singer's life, including an alleged infatuation from Robert De Niro and the turbulent relationship with Bobby Brown that Roberts believes contributed to her downfall.

Roberts, who protected Houston during her 1988 "Moment of Truth" tour, recounts how De Niro showered the singer with extravagant floral arrangements, filling entire rooms with flowers for months. De Niro's persistence, however, was met with resistance from Houston's mother, Cissy Houston, who reportedly put an end to the actor's advances.

At the time, Houston was reportedly involved with Eddie Murphy. Houston herself later corroborated De Niro's interest, mentioning his attempts to connect with her during a 1990 talk show appearance. She even hinted at a potential film project together, praising De Niro's acting prowess.

Roberts' book also delves into Houston's marriage to Bobby Brown, a relationship Roberts viewed with concern from the start. He believed their different backgrounds and lifestyles were incompatible. Roberts claims Houston adapted to Brown's habits, particularly increased alcohol consumption, which he witnessed escalating during their European tour. Roberts alleges this contributed to Houston's decline.

Roberts expresses regret for not intervening more forcefully during Houston's struggles and hopes his memoir will shed light on the pressures she faced and the failures of those around her to provide adequate support.