Giving us powerhouse performances andchanging looks, Jennifer Hudsonhas a talent like no other.
Not only were several of Hudson’s family members murdered, but her nephew was kidnapped as well.
Despite all this horror, Hudson powered on, a phoenix rising from the ashes of misfortune and loss.
While others would rightfully be discouraged, the adversity only inspired Hudson to keep hustling for her dreams.
What happened to Jennifer Hudson’s family?
Hudson’s seven-year-old nephew, Julian King, had also been reported missing.
Three days later, her nephew was heartbreakingly found dead, a result of multiple gunshot wounds.
Weeks after the slayings, the Chicago Police Department’s investigations led them to the killer.
Estranged husband to Hudson’s sister Julia, William Balfour was responsible for the murders and kidnapping.
How has Jennifer Hudson healed from the tragedy?
Although Balfour has not admitted to the murders, Hudson has learned to forgive him for what he did.
“For the most part, it’s not his fault,” said the actress in 2012.
“It’s like what he was taught and how he was brought up.
We tried to offer love.
He was so far gone he couldn’t even see that.
He never had a chance.”
For Hudson, processing the grief of losing three family members was an overwhelming feeling.
“There’s so many shocks involved in it.
Like, who do I grieve first or who do I start with?
Of course, I’m going to think of my mother because it’s my mother.
I think of her a lot.
Next I think of Julian or my brother.
I have moments where it’s bits and pieces.”
“She used to say, without family, you have nothing.
Chicago is my family.
Chicago is my home.
