Jennifer Hudson has come a long way since appearing on “American Idol,” but she has never forgotten the people who helped her on her journey. In a new clip from a 2023 episode of her eponymous talk show, the EGOT-status performer got a chance to thank a fellow artist for her support. Ledisi, a highly accomplished, multi-talented songwriter, showed Hudson kindness during the early phase of her post-reality TV career.
As Hudson fondly recalled, the two first met ahead of a Broadway benefit, when the talk show host was more than a little anxious about performing. “Oh my god, that’s my market,” Hudson recalled thinking at the time. “I’ve got to get it right.” Despite Hudson seeming a bit standoffish, Ledisi extended an olive branch and helped her feel more comfortable. “Thank you for befriending me and talking to me,” Hudson said. “You know, breaking the ice. Because it was a whole new world.”
Ledisi has Become a Family Friend
GettyHudson stayed in touch with Ledisi over the years but, as she revealed in the clip, the songwriter has also befriended her sister. “Every time, when [you’re] in our city of Chicago, you say, ‘Where’s Juju?'” Hudson said lightheartedly. Julia “JuJu” Hudson is the talk show host’s older sibling, who she called “the original JHud” in a 2024 Instagram post.
“I invite her to every show,” Ledisi said of Julia. “Or just call her and bug her. I love her.” The episode segment included a photo of Ledisi and Julia smiling and posing together like close friends. “And Juju don’t get out for too many now, but she gets out for old Ledisi,” Hudson said, highlighting her sister’s continued support for her guest.
Hudson Celebrated the 500th Episode of Her Show in 2025
GettyBack in 2004, then-contestant Hudson probably couldn’t have imagined herself having a talk show. Fast forward to 2025, and she celebrated a huge milestone: her 500th episode. “I am so grateful to be able to have this platform,” she said during the episode. “I am grateful for my staff and my crew ,and for all the viewers at home.” She also thanked her loyal studio audience, saying: “[Thank you] each and every one of you in the audience who come out here all the time.” The series was renewed for its fourth season in February 2025.
