Jennifer Hudson Reflects About Reuniting With Mariah Carey, Ariana Grande in Madison Square Garden
Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage for MC Reading Time: 2 minutes
Jennifer Hudson had an exciting weekend reuniting on stage with superstars Mariah Carey and Ariana Grande for a surprise holiday performance at Madison Square Garden. The singer reflected on the heartwarming experience of collaborating again with her “Christmas angels,” and that it was “the best holiday memory” she had.
Jennifer Hudson Talks About Reuniting With Mariah Carey, Ariana Grande
Hudson revealed on her talk show The Jennifer Hudson Show that Carey orchestrated the secret show, having Hudson and Grande make unannounced appearances during her New York concert to perform their song “Oh Santa” live together for the first time.
“Nobody knew we were coming of course because it wouldn’t be a surprise if they did,” Hudson said.
When Carey announced “Where’s J Hud?” and “Where’s Ari?” the crowd erupted as the two emerged. Hudson described the moment as a lovely surprise reunion for all three singers.
The last time the trio worked together was filming the “Oh Santa” music video nearly 13 years ago. Hudson said finally performing it live felt like “a reunion or something” since she hadn’t seen Grande since they starred in Hairspray Live in 2016. Their kids also got to meet backstage, with Hudson amused that Carey didn’t realize her 14-year-old son was no longer a little boy.
Overall, uniting with Carey and Grande amidst the holiday spirit in New York felt magical to Hudson, calling the experience “one of my favorite holidays” that she’ll never forget.
Mariah Carey Gave Ariana Grande, Jennifer Hudson Thoughtful Gifts
After surprising the Madison Square Garden crowd, Carey also surprised her two guests with personal holiday presents. Hudson proudly showed off on her talk show the gold necklace with a pearl pendant that Carey gave both her and Grande.
“Thank you Mariah, this was such a lovely gift and we had such a lovely time,” Hudson said while modeling the elegant jewelry.
She emphasized feeling so welcomed by Carey, who referred to Hudson and Grande as her “holiday angels” and treated the whole production like an extended family celebration.
The pearl necklaces will serve as a touching memento for Hudson and Grande commemorating their heartwarming reunion with Carey. Even years after initially recording “Oh Santa” together, the musical magic between the trio clearly remains strong.
