Whitney Houston Funeral Takes Place

Whitney Houston has been laid to rest after an emotional funeral ceremony in Newark.

One of the most popular female artists of all time, Whitney Houston's death caused an outpouring of grief from her fans. The artist's family arranged a funeral service, which they decided to stream online in order to allow wellwishers to pay their respects.

Taking place yesterday (February 18th) in Newark, the three hour ceremony saw a range of stars pay their respects to the singer. Aretha Franklin - Whitney Houston's godmother - had been due to perform, but pulled out due to ill health.

Her place was taken by Alicia Keys, while 'The Bodyguard' co-star Kevin Costner paid an emotional tribute to the singer.

Perhaps the biggest talking point of the ceremony was the presence of Bobby Brown. Snapped entering the funeral service, the musician seemingly left left early. A statement from Bobby Brown said that he and his children "were seated by security and then subsequently asked to move on three separate occasions".

"In light of the events, I gave a kiss to the casket of my ex-wife and departed as I refused to create a scene," he explained.

Whitney Houston will be laid to rest in Westfield, New Jersey later today (February 19th).