Randy Jackson Says Jennifer Hudson’s Singing is a “Gift Given by God”
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Jennifer Hudson recently reunited with American Idol judge Randy Jackson in her self-titled daytime talk show. Within the show, the 66 year old music producer acknowledged how proud he is of the EGOT winner.
Randy Jackson Reflects on Jennifer Hudson’s American Idol Audition
It’s no surprise that Randy Jackson is one of the celebrities to appear on The Jennifer Hudson Show‘s debut season, since Simon Cowell was previously seen in the premiere. Even though Hudson was generally unsuccessful on American Idol, she refers to Jackson as the person who jump started her career.
She introduced the former American Idol judge, stating that she “wouldn’t be here today” without him. The duo then went on to reminisce on her season, which aired nearly 18 years ago.
“I grew up in the church, in the hood. You grew up in the church, probably in the hood too. Singing is what we love, we grow up loving singing in the church,” Jackson said. “When I heard you when you auditioned, I thought, ‘That girl’s got something.’ And you still got it today, y’all, J-Hud is in her house!”
Hudson responded with a delighted shout simultaneous with the audience’s applause.
He Says Her Talent is a “Gift Given by God”
The EGOT winner also opened up about how people still come up to her and wonder what she feels about leaving the talent competition unexpectedly. Hudson managed to ask the same question to Jackson.
Within the episode, The EGOT singer has opened up, stating that people still ask her about being on the series in current day. For those who may not remember, Hudson placed seventh in American Idol Season 3, but continued to pursue music until she rose to fame.
Although Hudson didn’t make it into the Top 3, the former American Idol judge confirmed that Hudson is “proof” for those who want to pursue their dreams.
“You knew that you had a gift given by God,” Jackson said. “I’m probably more proud of you than any American Idol winner because you didn’t win! And look at what you’ve done.”
He continued praising the singer turned talk show host for her accomplishments. Hudson is the first American Idol contestant to earn EGOT status.
“That’s the thing, keep going and never give up. Believe in yourself and believe in your talent,” Jackson said. “You did it, you said, ‘Look, this ain’t gonna stop me. One door closes, five more about to open.'”