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Tag: Jennifer Hudson

  • ‘American Idol’ Ending With Season 15, Did ‘The Voice’ Cause Its Demise?

    American Idol is coming to an end following its 15th season, which is scheduled to begin in January. Do you suppose The Voice played a role in its demise? The singing competition show was the first of its kind, and was initially met with a huge viewership. After NBC introduced The Voice, however, the ratings plummeted.

    Us Weekly reports that Fox made the announcement Monday morning, May 11th, about American Idol’s cancellation.

    “American Idol will begin its 15th–and final–season this January on FOX,” the network wrote in a statement. “A season-long celebratory event, American Idol XV will feature host Ryan Seacrest and judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick, Jr., as they search for the final Idol superstar and pay tribute to the past 14 seasons of amazingly talented contestants and the millions of fans who tweeted, texted and championed their Idols.”

    American Idol will have graced the airwaves and scoured through countless prospective star singers for 13 years when it ends its run. The only constant figure throughout its entire reign is Ryan Seacrest. During the show’s first season, he introduced judges Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell, and Randy Jackson. That trio went on to work with Kara DioGuardi, Ellen DeGeneres, Lopez, Steven Tyler, Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj, Urban, and Connick, Jr. The trio of Lopez, Urban, and Connick, Jr. has been in place since 2014’s 13th season of American Idol.

    Some major talent has come from American Idol throughout the years. Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Clay Aiken, Jennifer Hudson, and Kellie Pickler all competed on or won American Idol.

    Are you disappointed to hear American Idol is coming to an end with its 15th season? Do you think The Voice , with judges Blake Shelton, Adam Levine, Pharrell Wiliams, and Christina Aguilera is a better quality program? Might it have contributed to American Idol calling it quits?

  • Zayn Malik Breaks Silence On Why He Left One Direction

    Zayn Malik, who broke the hearts of a slew of One Direction fans when he announced Wednesday that he would be leaving the British boy band, finally broke his silence over his decision to leave.

    Rumors circulated that he quit after refusing to give up the partying; however, Zayn Malik said he left One Direction simply to pursue a solo career.

    Zayn Malik told The Sun he already has a solo release planned, produced by Naughty Boy, who has worked with Rihanna and Jennifer Hudson.

    Zayn Malik said the reaction to his departure has been “crazy and wild and a bit mad,” but says he wouldn’t change a thing.

    “I’ve never felt more in control in my life,” said Zayn Malik. “And I feel like I’m doing what’s right – right by myself and right by the boys, so I feel good.”

    Zayn Malik denied there was any lingering bitterness from his former One Direction buddies, Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Moran.

    “My band has been really supportive,” he said. “They’ve been cool about it. And they understand that, you know, [One Direction is] not real to me anymore.

    Most importantly, Zayn Malik said he was much happier now because he is pursuing his own dreams and not those of others.

    “I did try to do something that I wasn’t happy doing for a while, for the sake of other people’s happiness,” he said, noting that his only regret is the pain it has caused his One Direction fans.

    “I feel like I’ve let the fans down but I can’t do this anymore,” Zayn Malik admitted. “It’s not that I’ve turned my back on them or anything, it’s just that I just can’t do that anymore because it’s not the real me.”

  • Kids Choice Awards 2015 Airs Saturday, Live Stream on Nick.com

    The Kids Choice Awards 2015 takes place tonight, Saturday, March 28th. Fans can watch the awards show in real time via live stream. The show starts at 8:00 PM ET, so head on over to Nick.com and click on the link for the live stream. Or simply click on the highlighted words ‘live stream’ in the previous sentence and get ready to see Nick Jonas host the show.

    Fans have been voting online in an effort to determine the winners of The Kids Choice Awards 2015.

    Saturday night’s show will feature performances by Nick Jonas, 5 Seconds of Summer, Iggy Azalea and Jennifer Hudson. Meanwhile, viewers can look forward to appearances by Jamie Foxx, Liam Hemsworth, Zendaya, Kevin James, Meghan Trainor, Nick Cannon, Debby Ryan, Quvenzhané Wallis, Echosmith, Fifth Harmony, Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting, and Tia Mowry-Hardrict.

    One of the highlights to every Kids Choice Awards broadcast involves watching to see which celebrities get slimed. Last year, ‘Happy’ singer and The Voice judge Pharrell Williams got slimed, as did Live! With Kelly and Michael star Michael Strahan. Mark Wahlberg of Ted fame got pretty messy, too.

    Who do you suppose will get covered with green slime on tonight’s Kids Choice Awards show?

    Do you think Liam Payne will talk about Zayn Malik’s departure from One Direction on the Kids Choice Awards 2015?

    Go click on that live stream now so you can catch all the evening’s fun.

  • Jennifer Hudson to Perform at the Oscars

    Jennifer Hudson to Perform at the Oscars

    Jennifer Hudson will perform at this year’s Oscars. The Academy announced that the Dreamgirls star will be singing for the big event.

    “We’re creating several musical sequences for the Oscars and we couldn’t be happier that our friend, Jennifer Hudson, will be performing in one of them,” the show’s producers, Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, said.

    Hudson is excited about her upcoming performance, and shared that excitement with her fans via Twitter.

    Hudson was actually full of good news on Wednesday–some that even rivals being asked to perform at the Oscars, too.

    That’s not the only news Jennifer Hudson was excited about sharing either. She has a new album available on iTunes.

    Fans are no doubt thrilled to learn all this good news about and from Jennifer Hudson all in the same day. They can not only download her new album, but can look forward to seeing her perform live on TV at the Academy Awards later on this month. And if they don’t mind waiting until next fall, they can see her on Broadway in an Oprah Winfrey-back revival of The Color Purple, too.

    Neil Patrick Harris is hosting the Oscars this year. Last year’s host was Ellen DeGeneres. Which of the two do you think will make the better host?

    Are you a Jennifer Hudson fan? Will you be tuning in to the Oscars on February 22nd at 7:00 PM ET on ABC to see and hear her perform?

  • Jennifer Hudson to Make Much-Awaited Broadway Debut in Oprah Winfrey-Backed ‘The Color Purple’

    Jennifer Hudson will make her Broadway debut this fall, starring in the Oprah Winfrey-backed revival of The Color Purple.

    This will be the Grammy, Oscar and Golden Globe-winner’s first foray in a Broadway production.

    The Dreamgirls actress will take on the role of Shug Avery, a sultry blues singer, in the musical.

    According to the New York Post, Winfrey reached out to Hudson personally to invite her to join the cast.

    John Doyle, who received a directing Tony in 2006 for his own Broadway debut with Sweeney Todd, designed and directed this particular production of the musical, which first opened in 2013 in London at the Menier Chocolate Factory.

    Music and lyrics are by Grammy winners Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray.

    The musical is an adaptation of the Alice Walker novel of the same name, which was made into the 1985 Steven Spielberg film starring Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg.

  • Jennifer Hudson Will Perform At Tom Joyner’s Cruise Ship Fundraiser

    Grammy Award winner and powerhouse celeb Jennifer Hudson is scheduled to perform for the Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage 2015.

    Hudson, an American Idol finalist from the 2004 season, recently graced another benefit event, helping raise a record total of $8.2 million for the David Foster Foundation Miracle Gala and Concert on September 27 in Calgary.

    Slated to join Hudson at radio-host Tom Joyner’s 2015 charity cruise are Earth, Wind & Fire, TLC, LL Cool J, and R. Kelly among others.

    The annual fundraiser for Historical Black Colleges and Universities will set sail to the Caribbean on-board Carnival’s newest ship, the Carnival Breeze. This will be the third year that the Joyner Foundation has partnered with Carnival Cruise Lines for the cause.

    Dubbed as the Original Party with a Purpose, the Tom Joyner Foundation Fantastic Voyage is considered the longest running music and empowerment themed cruise event sailing out of the US.

    The 2015 cruise will be the Foundation’s 16th annual voyage with the primary intent of raising money to help keep students in school at Historically Black Colleges & Universities. It will sail from the shores of Miami on April 11, 2015 for eight days of purposeful partying which will include calls at Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands; Montego Bay, Jamaica and Mahogany, Isla Roatan.

    The Tom Joyner Foundation is the first organization to charter an entire cruise ship to raise money for HBCUs. The annual charity cruise has sold out every year since it started in 1999. Booking early is recommended.

    Arnold Donald, CEO for Carnival Cruise, said: “This is an opportunity to have an amazing experience on a magnificent Carnival Cruise Lines ship while enjoying a wide variety of special activities, theme events, and top music talent, all for a good cause.”

    “This is one of those special experiences that will stay with you forever,” added Tom Joyner.

    Visit blackamericaweb.com for more information on the Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage.

    Image via Wikimedia Commons

  • Jennifer Hudson Talks Fitness, New Toned Physique And New Album

    Jennifer Hudson has been turning heads quite a bit lately!

    Of course, fans were well aware of her weight loss achievements, but no one really knew how much work she put in until she shared a bathing suit photo collage via Instagram back in June.

    The jaw-dropping pictures revealed the 33-year-old singer’s new toned physique. Now, she’s opening up about her weight loss journey and the gratuitous effort it took to get the job done.

    On Thursday, Sept. 25, the Oscar winner stopped by The Wendy Williams Show where she openly discussed her 80-pound weight loss. The former Weight Watchers spokesperson explained to Williams that losing weight was actually a “goal.”

    She also revealed she hadn’t felt comfortable about her figure until this past summer.

    “It was a goal because I’m from Chicago. We don’t really go to the beach or swimming. You know, it’s too cold for all of that. I didn’t even know we had beaches, but I was in Mexico and I made it a summer goal,” she explained.

    “I didn’t even know it was a bikini until I was reading the comments online.”

    Things also got a bit personal when Hudson dished about her fiancé’ David Otunga. Their relationship has definitely raised eyebrows many times because they’ve been engaged for six years, but have yet to set a wedding date.

    “We will get married one day,” she said. “But my thing is, once I get married, I don’t believe in divorce. When, I get married it’s for good. We want to be completely sure we are together and we’re happy.”

    The JHud singer went on to discuss her upcoming album as well. She revealed the new album is her most personal project, thus far.

    “The name of the album is JHud because I want people to get a sense of the girl, who I am every day versus the persona of Jennifer Hudson. I feel your fans should get to know your person and who you are.”

    Jennifer Hudson’s new album, JHud, was released Sept. 23.

  • Ariana Grande Honors Late Grandpa at ‘Stand Up to Cancer’

    Ariana Grande sang her heart out in honor of her late grandfather at the ‘Stand Up to Cancer‘ telethon on Friday. Grande’s grandpa passed away just a few weeks ago following a long battle with cancer, making her performance even more meaningful. She belted out her new hit song, ‘My Everything,’ in honor of him.

    Gwyneth Paltrow and Joel Gallen produced the ‘Stand Up to Cancer’ telecast for the second year in a row. The money raised supports ‘cross-disciplinary research toward new cancer treatments.’

    Ariana Grande tweeted the following message before she dedicated ‘My Everything’ to her late grandfather.

    It was clearly a very painful experience for the young singer and actress. Following her performance she spilled her guts on Twitter.

    In addition to Ariana Grande, ‘Stand Up to Cancer’ featured performances from Jennifer Hudson, The Who, Dave Matthews Band, Lupe Fiasco, and Common.

    Hopefully Ariana Grande’s performance in honor of her late grandfather proved cathartic. Grief is a powerful emotion, but singing from the heart is a powerful release. Maybe some of her grief floated away as she belted out her latest hit song.

    Did you catch Ariana Grande or any of the other acts that performed at ‘Stand Up to Cancer’ on Friday evening?

    You can check out Ariana’s performance below.

  • Ariana Grande Pays Tribute to Late ‘Gramps’ at ‘Stand Up to Cancer’ Telethon

    Ariana Grande paid tribute to her late grandfather Friday at this year’s Stand Up to Cancer telethon.

    The 21-year-old songstress gave a moving performance of her song, My Everything, for her beloved grandfather, who died in July following a lengthy battle with cancer.

    “Supporting a cause that is near & dear to my heart. tonight I’m singing for grandps! i miss u,” Grande tweeted before taking the stage Friday at the Los Angeles event.

    The telethon, which was broadcast to dozens of broadcast and cable networks, also featured performances by The Dave Matthews Band, The Who, Jennifer Hudson, Lupe Fiasco, and Common.

    It was obviously a difficult performance to get through for the worldwide singing sensation.

    This was the fourth Stand Up to Cancer telethon, which raises money to support research for new cancer treatments. Gwyneth Paltrow and Joel Gallen returned to produce this year’s telethon for a second time.

    Others on hand for the telethon included Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, Jane Lynch, Jesse Tyler, and many more.

  • Jennifer Hudson Reinvents Herself For New Album

    Jennifer Hudson opened up recently about her new album JHud, saying that while it’s a departure from her usual style, that isn’t a bad thing.

    The former American Idol contestant appeared on Today this week to perform some songs from the upcoming release and talked a bit about how she feels about limitations.

    “That’s all a part of artistry, is reinventing yourself. I don’t believe in being boxed in, or limits,” she said.

    While fans are more acquainted with Hudson’s signature ballad-style, the crowd at Today enjoyed her new tracks and showed their support with “JHud” t-shirts. The album will be available on September 23.

    Hudson also spoke recently about a very painful topic–the murders of her nephew, brother, and mother in 2008–and said her family has come up with a way to deal with the sadness and grief that comes along every year on what would have been young Julian’s birthday: holding a celebration which ensures a community of school children receive the supplies they need for the year at no cost.

    “We would dread each holiday and each birthday. This has been the trick to get us through the day and to the day,” Hudson said.

    The event is a huge deal to the community and has become so popular that local vendors have gotten involved, giving it the feel of a carnival. For Hudson and her sister Julia, it’s a way to both remember Julian in a positive way and get kids excited about school.

    “You have to find your way through it. The best thing you can do is to do things that you know (your deceased family members) would be pleased with. That way you know that they’re smiling and they’re happy. That’s one of the things that gets me through. Am I doing what my mother taught me? Am I remembering them in the way that they would want to be remembered? Am I representing them in the way that they would want to be represented? Doing that helps me,” she said.

  • Jennifer Hudson Says the Murder of Three Family Members Was a Test of Her Faith

    Jennifer Hudson endured a horrific experience few of us can even contemplate — the murder of three of her closest family members.

    The singer recently said the 2008 murder of her 57-year-old mother, Darnell Donerson, her 29-year-old brother, Jason Hudson, and her 7-year-old nephew, Julian King, was “the lowest of lows.”

    Believing the experience was a necessary test of her faith, Hudson says it was that faith which allowed her to move forward, accept the loss and find the positive in the wake of her devastating loss.

    “It (faith) was the ultimate help to me. We always said: ‘If He brings you to it, He will bring you through it,’” the award-winning singer said in an interview with The Observer Magazine. “There would be no point in faith if it wasn’t tested. My mother always told me no matter how negative your life seems to be, you must always look for a positive. That is what I believe a woman of faith should do.”

    It was while on tour in 2008 that Hudson learned from her sister, Julia, that her nephew was missing and that their mother and brother had been shot dead in their Chicago home by her former brother-in-law, Jason Balfour.

    Julia’s son was found dead several days later with ‘multiple gunshot wounds’ in the back of an abandoned SUV.

    Prosecutors said Balfour was a jealous ex who had been stalking his estranged wife’s house for months prior to the murders.

    Convicted of the murders in 2012, Balfour received three life sentences.

    Hudson says the trial turned out to be the most “dreadful” part of the whole ordeal. It was then that her grief hit her the hardest.

    “I know my mother would not have wanted us to miss a beat, so we were there every day. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone to have to experience anything like that, but that is what you do for your family, so that is what we did…,” said Hudson.

    In her album, JHUD, Hudson shares a very special song entitled Moan about her mother and brother.

    “… Mom would always tell us if you are hurting, moan and you will feel better … There is not a day that goes by when I don’t repeat the things she said. She was very quiet. The complete opposite of us kids. Now she has gone, I realize she had a lot to say. My brother, too, I hear him, too. When we were kids any time my brother saw me crying he would be like, ‘Jenny, knock it off.’ And that’s what I hear him say when I cry now,” said Hudson.

    Hudson says the loss of her family members has allowed her to tap into even greater depths of emotion when singing.

    “Certainly there is a lot of emotion there, but I think I have always been in that kind of space. What do they say in church? Sing from your heart, because you are singing to God,” said the Dreamgirls actress.

    “You know, when I used to sing those solos in church I would go through every line and ask the director ‘What does this mean? What are we trying to convey here?’ If you can’t feel the emotion of a song, how do you expect anyone else to? It’s like a testimony in that way.”

    The singer shared that she has one thing that hasn’t changed despite pain, loss and upheaval.

    “If I close my eyes, I can almost remember what it was like, what I was like, 15 years ago. I was at home in Chicago, still in high school, singing in church, living with my family.” said Hudson. “But generally, no, it feels like another Jennifer life. I don’t look the same. I’m a mother now. So many things have changed. I sometimes think the only constant is my voice. That hasn’t gone away.”

    Image via Wikimedia Commons

  • Jennifer Hudson Rocks BET Awards, Debuts New Song With R. Kelly

    There were many show-stopping performances at the 2014 BET Awards and Jennifer Hudson was one of those who shined.

    Chris Rock introduced the American Idol alum by saying, “The one thing she didn’t lose at Weight Watchers was her voice.”

    The 32-year-old singer-actress rocked the entire Nokia Theater and started her amazing performance by singing “Walk It Out” donning a short black leather dress and thigh-length boots. The sexy look was a great match to her pixie cut and bright red lipstick. She strutted down the aisle of the theater while the audience stood up and danced with her.

    When Hudson hit the stage, she then transitioned to her new song “It’s Your World” featuring R. Kelly, although he was not present.

    Dancers on roller skates surrounded Hudson and there were flashing lights and disco balls all around. Although the set was amazing, Hudon’s powerhouse voice was the star of the performance. After performing, she garnered a round of applause and a standing ovation from the audience including Tyrese. Her performance was one that didn’t disappoint.

    Hudson first announced “It’s Your World” on her Twitter account by saying, “I’m gonna be performing a brand new track on the betawards for yal tmrw night!!”

    Right after the BET Awards, Hudson released an official teaser for her upcoming album. The full version of “It’s Your World” leaked a day after her BET performance. Other samples included on the official snippet include “He Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere,” “I Can’t Describe (The Way I Feel),” “Walk It Out,” and “Dangerous.”

    Her new album is scheduled to be released this year. She described the album as more “upbeat” than her previous albums. Hudson worked with R. Kelly, RedOne, Pharrell Williams, and Timbaland. “It’s not dance dance, but it’s soulful dance. It’s very 70’s kinda style,” she said.

    Jennifer Hudson featuring R. Kelly:  “It’s Your World”

    Image via YouTube

  • Jennifer Hudson, Weight Watchers Part Ways

    Jennifer Hudson, Weight Watchers Part Ways

    After four years and losing 80 pounds,  singer-actress Jennifer Hudson ended her stint as a Weight Watchers spokesperson, Us Weekly reported Saturday.

    The American Idol alum first teamed up with the company in 2011 when she was a size 12. She now fits into a size 6. Her departure was a mutual decision.

    “After four years of a successful and rewarding partnership, Weight Watchers and Jennifer Hudson are ending our official partnership, though we’re confident Jennifer will remain a Lifetime Member,” a Weight Watchers representative said in a statement.

    “Jennifer’s healthy lifestyle and successful weight loss has inspired so many – from her friends and family to our members and staff, as well as people around the world – and we know that inspiration lives on,” the statement continued.

    “We will continue to support Jennifer in maintaining her healthy lifestyle and wish her the very best in her personal and professional life,” the statement read.

    Weight Watchers also thanked Jennifer Hudson via Twitter Friday.

     

    The 32-year-old Dreamgirls actress admitted in an interview for the December 2012 of Redbook, in which she appeared on the cover, that her transformation was complete.

    “But I hear all the time, ‘Don’t lose any more weight; you need to stop.’ People are under the impression that I’m still losing, but I’m not,” said Hudson.

    Image via Wikimedia Commons

  • Jennifer Hudson and Weight Watchers Part Ways

    Jennifer Hudson and Weight Watchers–the plan for which she served as spokesperson and with which she lost 80 pounds–are parting ways. Her contract was about to come to an end and it was a mutually agreeable separation when she chose not to extend it. The former Dreamgirls star doesn’t even resemble the woman she was when she appeared in the 2006 film. She looks years younger and so much healthier now than she did eight years ago.

    “I have chosen to step away from my role as ambassador and I am excited for the year to come, with many new projects and lots of new music,” Judson said as part of a statement issued to PEOPLE magazine.

    “My experience with Weight Watchers has truly been life changing. I am grateful for what I have learned throughout the process and will always take it with me.”

    A Weight Watchers representative chimed in on the departure.

    “We’re confident Jennifer will remain a Lifetime Member. Jennifer’s healthy lifestyle and successful weight loss has inspired so many – from her friends and family to our members and staff, as well as people around the world – and we know that inspiration lives on.”

    Jennifer Hudson seemed to grasp the entire premise behind Weight Watchers and used it to her advantage.

    “The key about losing weight: You have to do it for you,” she told PEOPLE.

    She never felt pressured to lose weight in order to meet the often unreachable Hollywood standards.

    Jennifer Hudson and Jessica Simpson have appeared in a few Weight Watchers commercials together, but this means Hudson will officially pass the reins to Simpson. She will now be the only official Weight Watchers spokesperson throughout all of 2014.

    Hudson deserves kudos for sticking to her weight loss plan despite her crazy schedule. As a mom and a performer–not to mention the stress of losing her mother and brother to murder a few years ago–she has put her health first, and she now reaps the benefits of a healthy, svelte figure as a result of it. She sets a fine example for women everywhere who strive to make permanent lifestyle changes.

    Image via YouTube

  • Jennifer Hudson Parts Ways With Weight Watchers

    Jennifer Hudson, 32, has met her weight-loss goals — 80 pounds lost — and has deemed it time to part ways from Weight Watchers.

    The Dreamgirls actress announced the mutual decision to end her partnership of four years with the weight-loss company.

    “After four years of a successful and rewarding partnership, Weight Watchers and Jennifer Hudson are ending our official partnership, though we’re confident Jennifer will remain a Lifetime Member,” a Weight Watchers rep told Us Weekly in a statement.

    “Jennifer’s healthy lifestyle and successful weight loss has inspired so many – from her friends and family to our members and staff, as well as people around the world – and we know that inspiration lives on,” the statement said. “We will continue to support Jennifer in maintaining her healthy lifestyle and wish her the very best in her personal and professional life.”

    “I have chosen to step away from my role as ambassador and I am excited for the year to come, with many new projects and lots of new music,” Hudson says in a statement to PEOPLE.

    “My experience with Weight Watchers has truly been life changing. I am grateful for what I have learned throughout the process and will always take it with me.”

    In November 2012, Hudson said that her goal had been met. “I’m at the weight I want to be,” she said in and interview with Redbook. “But I hear all the time, ‘Don’t lose any more weight, you need to stop.’ People are under the impression that I’m still losing but I’m not.”

    Jessica Simpson, 33, is the latest big name spokesperson for the company. Since joining Weight Watchers, she lost 70 pounds since giving birth to daughter Maxwell, 23 months, and has continued to show off her slimmed down figure since giving birth to son Ace in June.

    On March 7, she showed off her slim figure on Instagram wearing a tight white T-shirt.

    Image via Instagram, Jennifer Hudson

  • Jennifer Hudson Says Goodbye To Weight Watchers

    After four years and a new svelte figure, singer and actress Jennifer Hudson and Weight Watchers are parting ways.

    Hudson says the experience being the company’s ambassador was tremendous, but due to the other projects she has on the shelf, she wants to step down. But there’s no hard feelings, she says.

    “My experience with Weight Watchers has truly been life changing,” stated Hudson. “I am grateful for what I have learned throughout the process and will always take it with me. I have chosen to step away from my role as ambassador and I am excited for the year to come, with many new projects and lots of new music.”

    In a 2012 interview with the Huffington Post, Hudson said she wasn’t used to being told how wonderful she looks.

    People commenting on my looks “can get overwhelming at times,” she admitted. “At times I’m still trying to catch up mentally. I’ll be like, ‘Why are you saying that? I didn’t put on anything special today,’ and then I’ll be like, ‘Oh right, I forgot I have a new appearance now.’”

    And Hudson said getting her family to lose weight was probably the best part of working with Weight Watchers, because a lot of them are really healthy now.

    “Over 175 family members and they’ve lost over 2,000 pounds collectively,” said the former American Idol contestant. “I’m so proud of all of them. They’ve all supported me in everything I’ve ever done, so I was blown away when they decided to take this journey seriously and do Weight Watchers.”

    But despite losing all of that weight–which happened to be about 80 pounds or so–Hudson says she’s sad that society is so body-conscious, and it bothered her that people treated her better after she lost weight.

    “I always say you never understand unless you’ve been on a journey like this,” she said. “People are friendlier; there are more opportunities, more flexibility in so many different ways. I think it’s messed up that people are so image-driven and your appearance affects the way people treat you. It’s crazy and it may be something we do subconsciously.”

    Image via Wikimedia Commons

  • Jennifer Hudson Talks Weight Loss, Wedding Plans

    Jennifer Hudson knows that it takes a lot of hard work to reach a big goal; after all, she did rise through the ranks of “American Idol”, and even though she wasn’t the winner that season, she turned her time on the competition into a record deal and eventually made the move to the big screen in films like “The Secret Life Of Bees” and “Sex And The City”. Now, she’s speaking out about her dramatic weight loss after the media frenzy surrounding “The Biggest Loser” winner Rachel Frederickson.

    “The key about losing weight: You have to do it for you,” Hudson said in an interview with People Magazine. “It’s not about even starting the journey, it’s about you. You have to want to do it. And you can’t let what everyone has to say overshadow what you want for you.”

    Frederickson shocked the studio audience, the show’s trainers, and those watching the finale when she appeared onstage as a shadow of her former self, having lost 155 pounds–60% of her body weight. Many took to the web to comment on her frail appearance, saying it was possible she had taken her weight loss journey too far and was verging on anorexia. But for Hudson, who dealt with her own opinions on her body over the years, it doesn’t matter what anyone else has to say. She says she’s managed to keep up with her healthy goals by sticking to Weight Watchers and counting points everywhere she goes, which can’t be easy for someone who travels a lot.

    Of course, maintaining her figure may be part of her wedding plans; the 30-year old singer is engaged to professional wrestler David Otunga and is excitedly planning their wedding, which will feature their 2-year old son, David Jr. While the couple hasn’t revealed too many details–including a date–Hudson has said she designed her own gown, which will be in three pieces.

    Image via Wikimedia Commons

  • Jennifer Hudson and Other Acts To Headline New Carnival LIVE Concert Series

    Before American Idol alum Jennifer Hudson rose to stardom, she was a live performer on-board a Disney cruise ship. Now, the singer-actress is making her way back to her humble beginnings. But, this time around, she’ll be a headliner.

    On Wednesday Jan. 22, Carnival Cruise Lines unveiled its newest attraction Carnival LIVE Concert Series. It was also announced that the “One Night Only” singer would be a headliner for the new series, reports Associated Press.

    “I used to work on a cruise ship, a long time ago,” said Hudson before performing at a Carnival news conference in midtown Manhattan. “That’s what I did before I did ‘American Idol.’”

    The Grammy award-winning singer also expressed that headlining Carnival LIVE “is like a full circle.” She went on to share her anticipation toward the upcoming experience. “Performing live is one of my favorite things,” said Hudson at an exclusive launch event for Carnival LIVE Jan. 22. “I’m excited to be part of this unique concert series that will allow me to interact with my fans in such an intimate and memorable setting.”

    Hudson is slated to perform June 18 on Carnival Ecstasy and June 19 on Carnival Breeze in Cozumel, Mexico.

    Carnival’s senior vice president of guest operations Mark Tamis also offered a brief outline of what guests can expect from the new Carnival LIVE. “Onboard entertainment is an important part of the overall guest experience when cruising,” said Tamis.

    “With the Carnival LIVE Concert Series, our guests will enjoy an exclusive performance with one of their favorite artists for an extraordinary value. Combined with our enhanced house bands fleetwide, this is just another example of the many ways we are constantly looking to create even more fun and memorable moments for our guests.”

    The Florida-based cruise line also announced a number of other notable acts scheduled to perform for the Carnival LIVE series this year. Daughtry, Foreigner, Jewel, Lady Antebellum, LeAnn Rimes, Martina McBride and Trace Adkins are among the growing list of entertainers set to headline concerts. So far, 49 shows have been confirmed by Carnival for 2014.

    The legendary Chicago-based rock band Styx is scheduled to kick off the new series April 7 on-board the Carnival Ecstasy in Nassau.

    Image via Facebook | Jennifer Hudson

  • Beyonce’s Mom Parties with Kris Jenner

    When most people have a 60th birthday party it usually involves a few friends, a quiet dinner and a few gifts, but not when you’re the mother of the biggest pop star on the planet, which is why Tina Knowles, Beyonce’s mother, had more of a birthday extravaganza rather than a simple birthday party.

    The star studded event was held at Muriel’s Jackson Square in New Orleans, which goes for at least $100,000 a night, says TMZ, which of course is mere pennies for Tina’s famous daughter and son in law.

    Before the celebration even got underway, a marching band escorted Tina and her other famous daughter Solange into the event, and reportedly, Beyonce stayed in the background for most of the evening, coming through a secret entrance to avoid paparazzi and to keep the spotlight on her mother instead of herself.

    Guest at the event included R&B singer Monica, Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Rowland and Jay-Z. And what would a celebrity filled party be without at least one Kardashian or Jenner in attendance, and this time, it was Kris Jenner who showed up, which of course made the paparazzi salivate with glee.

    And though Beyonce avoided the lens during the shindig, she decided to jump into a photo with Jenner, Tina and Hudson, which Jenner eventually posted on her Instagram account. “Happy birthday Tina!!! Beautiful night,” she wrote when posting the image. A second picture captures Jenner standing in between Hudson and Monica and quite frankly, Jenner looks great and pretty youthful, considering she’s standing next to two women almost half her age.

    It’ll be two more years before Jenner herself turns 60, which is bound to be an event of gigantic proportions, because just think, if she’s doing this much whooping it up at Christmas parties, celebrity events, and other people’s birthdays, imagine what her 60th will be like. It’s safe to assume that it won’t be just a few friends, a quiet dinner and a few gifts. That’s for sure.

    Image via Wikimedia Commons

  • Jennifer Hudson Gives Her Assistant a Jaw-Dropping Christmas Gift

    R&B singer Jennifer Hudson was definitely in the Christmas spirit this year, warming hearts near and far. However, one gift she gave has caught the attention of millions around the world.

    However, it’s definitely not something you can wrap in a box or put a giant bow on.

    The singer–actress actually purchased her assistant a house! Hudson’s assistant, Walter Williams, received a gift he’ll probably never forget, and his reaction was priceless! His response was so candid that Hudson actually took to Instagram to share it with the world.

    On Tuesday, Dec. 31, the Dreamgirls actress posted a 15-second video of a very gracious and over-the-top Williams, as he received his big gift. The video captures Williams reading the paperwork for the house.

    However, once he comprehends its meaning, he immediately drops the papers and screams.

    He then proceeds to rush Hudson, who she jumps on the couch before being smothered with giant, loving hug.

    The caption for the Instagram video read, “My assistant Walter’s reaction when he found out I was buying him a house for Christmas!” The heart-warming video immediately garnered more than 20,000 likes.

    The next day, Hudson posted another picture of she and Williams enjoying a memorable moment in the snow. The picture’s caption read, “He dumped me in the snow yal! That d–n Walter !!”

    According to Advocate, Hudson spoke of her relationship with Williams back in 2011. The two have actually been friends since the sixth grade. “Walter and I have been friends since sixth grade. He’s by far my closest friend and my closest gay friend ever,” the Grammy award-winning singer said.

    But Hudson’s giving doesn’t stop there. According to E! News, Hudson actually has big plans for her childhood home in Englewood, IL. Her family is actually aspiring to transform the home into a women’s shelter.  “We still own the home and I would like to turn it into a shelter for women as soon as possible or by my mother’s birthday, which is Nov. 7,” the Oscar award-winner explained. “At least that is what I would like to see the house used for.”

    Although the concept is only in the preliminary stages, Hudson is aspiring to put the plan in motion sometime this year. However, the idea has not yet been confirmed.

    Image via Twitter | Jennifer Hudson

  • Jennifer Hudson Buys Aide Huge Gift

    Jennifer Hudson bought her aide a huge gift this Christmas–a house. Her aide–or personal assistant, and long time close friend–was named via social media as simply “Walter.” Can you imagine how incredibly exciting it must have been for Walter when he received his Christmas present? What do you suppose Hudson bought the remainder of her friends and family members if Walter got a house?

    Hudson shared the excitement her aide expressed when learning of the amazing gift she had purchased for him. A video on Instagram shows Walter expressing his complete surprise and utter amazement at his employer and dear friend’s generosity. Jennifer Hudson captioned her Instagram video as follows.

    “My assistant Walter’s reaction when he found out I was buying him a house for Christmas!”

    Check it out that video in its uninterrupted entirety as she hands him the paperwork that names him as owner of the property she gifted him.

    Jennifer Hudson continues to amaze her fans–not only because of her amazing talent, but for the obvious peace in her soul. Her mother and brother were brutally murdered back in 2008 by her former brother-in-law. She has since forgiven him and moved on to live a very fulfilling life–quite obviously filled with immense love and consideration for those around her.

    Image via Facebook