In 1996, Denzel Washington made us root for a ghost, thanks to his role in the cult classic The Preacher’s Wife. 

The film, a modern adaptation of the 1947 movie The Bishop’s Wife, was centered around an angel, Dudley (Denzel Washington), who descends from heaven to help a preacher, the Rev. Henry Biggs (Courtney B. Vance), rediscover his purpose as a community leader as well as strengthen his bond with his family, especially his wife, Julia, who is portrayed by the late Whitney Houston.

What is The Preacher’s Wife about?

Directed by Penny Marshall, the film sees Vance’s character lead a small, struggling Black church. With it facing financial ruin, declining attendance, and pressure from a real estate developer to sell, Henry becomes increasingly preoccupied with his troubles, neglecting his wife and their son, Jeremiah. With nothing else left to do, Henry prays for help, and Dudley, a charming angel, grants his wish. Dudley’s presence brings transformative changes to Henry’s life as Christmas gets closer and further illuminates the church’s importance.

Who else stars in the film?

Along with Vance, Washington and Houston, Gregory Hines portrays Benny, the businessman looking to buy the church property. Loretta Devine plays church secretary Pearl, and Jenifer Lewis is church member Annie and one of Julia’s closest friends.

Themes of faith and renewal

Centered around the church, The Preacher’s Wife sits at the intersection of faith, doubt and the struggle people often encounter when trying to remain optimistic while facing adversity. The film highlights the Black church, its role as the cornerstone of the community, and the struggles religious leaders face to keep things running smoothly.

It showcases that church is much more than simply gathering to hear the Word of God, but moreso a place where community thrives, with one scene in particular touching on how outside of the church, pastors show up for their congregation members when Pastor Biggs helps a young teen who has found himself in trouble with the law.

This film further solidifies Houston’s nickname, “The Voice,” as the mic stayed ON for the entire movie! Her performances of “I Believe in You and Me,” “I Love the Lord,” and “Who Would Imagine a King,” in the film were soul-stirring, and the soundtrack for The Preacher’s Wife even became one of the best-selling gospel albums of all-time.

What happens at the end of ‘The Preacher’s Wife’?

After Dudley’s divine intervention helps to breathe purpose back into Henry and teaches him the importance of showing up for his family as much as he does for those in the church, the holiday season draws to a close and Dudley completely wipes the memories of his presence from everyone’s memory.

Rather than having the family credit him for the significant shifts in their lives, Dudley decides that erasing their memories will help them credit their transformation to their strength and ability to keep the faith. In the final scene, Henry delivers a powerful sermon and Julia’s angelic performance of  “My Heart Is Calling” brings the film’s message of redemption, family and Christmas miracles full circle.

Where is ‘The Preacher’s Wife’ streaming?

You can stream The Preacher’s Wife on The Roku Channel and Hulu.