Hudson
Jennifer Hudson’s American Idol Season 3 Highlights
One of the most infamous moments in American Idol history is the early exit of Jennifer Hudson in season 3, and, as she achieves EGOT status, it is time to revisit her highlights from the singing competition show. American Idol season 3 premiered on January 19, 2004, and featured a 22-year-old Jennifer, affectionately called «JHud» by her fans, who auditioned in Atlanta with Aretha Franklin's «Share Your Love With Me.» The American Idol judges (Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, and Simon Cowell) all voted «yes,» and she earned her ticket to Hollywood. Jennifer would go on to earn rave reviews for playing Aretha in the 2021 film Respect, which she also executive produced.