Early Life
Jennifer Hudson was born on September 12, 1981, in Chicago, Illinois. She grew up in a musical family and began singing at a young age. Hudson's mother, Darnell Donerson, was her biggest supporter and helped her pursue her passion for music.
Hudson attended Dunbar Vocational Career Academy in Chicago, where she sang in the school choir and participated in various talent shows. After high school, she moved to New York City to pursue a career in musical theater.
Career
Jennifer Hudson's big break came when she auditioned for the 2002 season of Star Search. Although she didn't win the competition, her performance caught the attention of record producer David Foster, who signed her to his label.
Hudson released her debut album, Jennifer Hudson, in 2008. The album was a commercial success and spawned several hit singles, including "Spotlight" and "Thinkin' 'Bout You."
Awards and Nominations
Jennifer Hudson has won numerous awards for her music, film, and theater performances. She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Dreamgirls (2006) and the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy for her role in Musical Genius (2015).
Hudson has also been nominated for several awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, Emmy Awards, and Tony Awards.
Personal Life
Jennifer Hudson is married to David Otunga, a professional wrestler and Harvard Law graduate. The couple has one son together, David Daniel Otunga Jr., born in 2009.
Hudson's family was tragically affected by violence when her mother, brother, and nephew were murdered in 2008. She has since become an advocate for victims' rights and has worked to raise awareness about domestic violence.
Filmography
Jennifer Hudson has appeared in several films throughout her career, including Dreamgirls (2006), Sex and the City (2008), and The Secret Life of Bees (2008).
Hudson has also lent her voice to several animated films, including Home (2015) and Storks (2016).
Theatre
Jennifer Hudson made her Broadway debut in the musical Dreamgirls in 2009. She played the role of Effie White, a part she originated on screen.
Hudson has since appeared in several other stage productions, including The Color Purple (2015) and Chicago (2016).
Discography
Jennifer Hudson's debut album, Jennifer Hudson, was released in 2008. The album included the hit singles "Spotlight," "Thinkin' 'Bout You," and "Love You I Do."
Hudson has since released several other albums, including I Remember Me (2011) and JHUD (2014).
Talk Show
Jennifer Hudson launched her own talk show, The Jennifer Hudson Show, in 2022. The show features interviews with celebrities, musicians, and other notable figures.
Hudson has also used the platform to discuss social issues and advocate for various causes.
Respect
Jennifer Hudson starred as Aretha Franklin in the biopic Respect, which was released in 2021. The film follows Franklin's life and career, from her early days as a gospel singer to her rise as the Queen of Soul.
Hudson's performance earned her several awards and nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
The Gift of Love
Jennifer Hudson released her fourth studio album, The Gift of Love, in 2024. The album features a mix of pop, R&B, and gospel music.
Hudson has said that the album is inspired by her faith and her desire to spread love and positivity through her music.