Memes erupt as Tyra Banks says she wants Taylor Swift to star in ‘The Bodyguard’ remake

In a twist that no one had on their 2025 bingo card, Tyra Banks has gone full dream-cast mode and declared that she wants Taylor Swift to star in a remake of the iconic 1992 film, The Bodyguard—you know, the one made legendary by Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner. According to Tyra, Taylor is a no-brainer for the role because, in her words:

“Business and commerce, art, and she would freakin’ sell like crazy.”

PopCrave’s tweet quoting her sent social media into an instant meltdown, with fans scrambling to imagine Blondie belting out “I Will Always Love You”… or running from danger in heels. Spoiler alert: the memes came in faster than a Reputation-era bass drop.

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Why Tyra wants Taylor, and why fans aren’t buying it

Tyra’s casting wishlist also includes Idris Elba as the titular bodyguard, which fans were slightly more receptive to. Elba’s charisma and acting chops are undeniably fit for the role Kevin Costner once filled. But the controversy really hit when Tyra suggested that Taylor would “sell like crazy,” emphasizing commercial value over legacy, representation, and, well, singing ability.

The original Bodyguard wasn't just a romantic thriller—it was a cultural reset. Whitney Houston made her film debut with a voice that defined a generation. Recasting that role with a white pop star, no matter how successful, raised instant red flags for audiences, especially in terms of racial dynamics and artistic legacy. Fans quickly pointed out that Hollywood has a history of rewriting iconic Black roles with white leads, and many saw this as more of the same.

Also, Swift’s previous acting roles haven’t exactly earned standing ovations. From Valentine’s Day to Cats, critics have consistently side-eyed her on-screen performances. The idea of her carrying a remake of one of the most beloved love stories in pop culture? Yeah, fans are gonna need more convincing than “commerce.”

Meanwhile, the Bodyguard remake has been in development limbo for years. Back in 2021, it was reported that a modern reimagining was in the works with a diverse cast, but no official leads were confirmed. Tyra’s casting comment seems more like a personal wishlist than an industry plan, but it was enough to send the internet into chaos.

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Tyra Banks wants Taylor Swift in a ‘Bodyguard’ remake — and the memes didn’t miss their cue

Let’s just say… the internet was not loving it.

Where’s the representation? (via @YallQunt on X)

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Swift in action… literally (via @aiwfcidevin on X)

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Respectfully, no (via @AlexNever347 on X)

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Plot twist: confusion (via @badguybixch on X)

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Tyra, please log off (via @heyyitsjanea on X)

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Still wondering… (via @phonywizard on X)

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Tyra, girl bye (via @appaulleddd on X)

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Just: Ummm what? (via @julissa_vital on X)

The common theme? Fans don’t believe Swift is the right fit—not because of her talent as a musician, but because the role was originally created as a vehicle for Whitney Houston’s powerhouse vocals and cultural impact. And, well, Taylor’s filmography includes Cats. Enough said.

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While Tyra’s suggestion was likely made in good faith (and possibly over a late-night brainstorming session), it is safe to say fans are not on board with a Swift-led Bodyguard reboot. The memes, shade, and outright confusion prove that some legacies are better left untouched—or at the very least, handled with more nuance. Until then, Tyra may want to stick to teaching smizes and leave the remakes to, well…literally anyone else.