People.com Celebrity Bobby Brown 'Deeply Saddened' By Whitney Houston's Death "I appreciate all of the condolences," says the R&B star, who was married to Houston By Debra Lewis Boothman Published on February 12, 2012 01:35 PM Share Tweet Pin Email Photo: Amy Graves/WireImage Bobby Brown is speaking out. In his first official comments about the tragic death of his ex-wife, Whitney Houston, the R&B star released a statement to PEOPLE saying, “I am deeply saddened at the passing of my ex-wife, Whitney Houston.” He adds, “At this time, we ask for privacy, especially for my daughter, Bobbi Kristina. I appreciate all of the condolences that have been directed towards my family and I at this most difficult time.” On the day Houston, 48, was found dead in a Beverly Hills hotel, a tearful Brown performed in Mississippi with his band New Edition. “I love you, Whitney,” he said from the stage. A relative of Brown’s says that he is “beside himself” with grief. PHOTOS: Whitney Houston: Her Life in Pictures