Early Life and Education of Jennifer Hudson: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Jennifer Hudson, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Jennifer Hudson, nicknamed J.Hud, is a highly acclaimed American singer and actress. She achieved EGOT status (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony Awards) in 2022, making her the youngest woman and third African-American to accomplish this feat. Hudson was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2013 and recognized by Time as one of the world's 100 most influential people in 2020, highlighting her significant impact across music, film, television, and theater.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

September 12, 1981: Jennifer Hudson's Birth

On September 12, 1981, Jennifer Kate Hudson, nicknamed J.Hud, was born in the United States.

Others born on this day/year

1999: High School Graduation

In 1999, Jennifer Hudson graduated from Dunbar Vocational High School in Englewood.

September 2008: Engagement to David Otunga

In September 2008, Jennifer Hudson became engaged to David Otunga, a professional wrestler and Harvard Law graduate.

October 24, 2008: Family Tragedy

On October 24, 2008, Jennifer Hudson's mother, Darnell Donerson, and her brother, Jason Hudson, were found murdered at Donerson's home. Her nephew, Julian King, was reported missing, triggering an AMBER Alert.

February 2009: Sang the Star-Spangled Banner at Super Bowl XLIII

In February 2009, Jennifer Hudson made her first public appearance since the murders of her mother, brother, and nephew when she sang the Star-Spangled Banner at Super Bowl XLIII.

May 2009: Fundraiser Appearance with Barack Obama

In May 2009, Jennifer Hudson appeared with former President Barack Obama at a fundraiser in Beverly Hills.

May 2009: Throat Fatigue and Tour Rescheduling

In early May 2009, Jennifer Hudson suffered "throat fatigue" which caused her to reschedule her May 16–19, 2009, tour dates.

July 2009: Performed at Michael Jackson Memorial Service

In July 2009, Jennifer Hudson sang "Will You Be There" at the Michael Jackson memorial service.

August 2009: Birth of Son

In August 2009, Jennifer Hudson gave birth to her first child, a son named David Daniel Otunga Jr.

December 2009: Jennifer Hudson: I'll Be Home for Christmas Special

In December 2009, Jennifer Hudson performed in a Christmas special called Jennifer Hudson: I'll Be Home for Christmas, filmed in Chicago.

January 22, 2010: Performed on "Hope for Haiti Now" Telethon

On January 22, 2010, Jennifer Hudson appeared on the telethon "Hope for Haiti Now: A Global Benefit for Earthquake Relief," performing The Beatles' "Let it Be."

January 26, 2010: "Hope for Haiti Now" Donations

As of January 26, 2010, the "Hope for Haiti Now" telecast, where Jennifer Hudson performed, generated $61 million in donations for earthquake relief.

2010: Weight Watchers Spokesperson

In 2010, Jennifer Hudson became the spokesperson for Weight Watchers, having lost 56 pounds.

February 10, 2011: Revealed 80-Pound Weight Loss on Oprah

On February 10, 2011, Jennifer Hudson revealed on The Oprah Winfrey Show that she had lost a total of 80 pounds.

2011: Residency in Burr Ridge, Illinois

As of 2011, Jennifer Hudson resided in Burr Ridge, Illinois, a western suburb of Chicago.

February 12, 2012: Tribute to Whitney Houston at Grammy Awards

The day after Whitney Houston's death, on February 12, 2012, Jennifer Hudson paid tribute to her by singing Houston's "I Will Always Love You" during the 54th Grammy Awards.

July 2012: William Balfour Sentenced

In July 2012, William Balfour was sentenced to three life sentences without parole, plus 120 years, for the murders of Jennifer Hudson's mother, brother, and nephew.

2012: Autobiography Release: I Got This

In 2012, Jennifer Hudson's autobiography, I Got This: How I Changed My Ways and Lost What Weighed Me Down, was released, detailing her weight loss journey.