Jennifer Hudson opens up about her 27 siblings in a Podcast
In a recent episode of the podcast Your Mama’s Kitchen: Conversations from the Heart of the Home, Jennifer Hudson, the acclaimed singer and actress, made a shocking revelation about her family history.
The 42-year-old EGOT winner disclosed that her father, Samuel Simpson, fathered a total of 27 children, a revelation that has captured the attention and curiosity of fans worldwide.
During her candid conversation with podcast host Michele Norris, Hudson reflected on her father’s larger-than-life personality and the unexpected discovery of her extensive network of siblings.
“Yes, a lot of us. Apparently, he had 27 children,” Hudson revealed, recounting the moment she first learned about her numerous siblings at the age of 16.
She expressed a lifelong dream of uniting her siblings around a grand Thanksgiving or Christmas table, describing it as her goal since adolescence.
“That was my goal at 16,” Hudson emphasized, expressing a deep-seated desire to forge connections across her extended family despite not having met all of her siblings. She has, however, managed to connect with several, including the siblings she grew up with, Jason and Julia.
“The discovery of Jennifer Hudson’s extensive family is truly surprising and inspiring,” commented journalist Liza Esquibias, noting the remarkable impact of Hudson’s revelation.
Norris, clearly touched by Hudson’s honesty, remarked on the importance of her journey.
“Jennifer, it’s amazing to hear how you’ve embraced this journey of finding and connecting with your family. What has been the best part for you?” Norris asked, prompting Hudson to delve into her personal reasons further.
“The most rewarding part has been seeing the bond grow between my siblings and me,” Hudson replied thoughtfully. “Despite the challenges and the vastness of our family, knowing that we’re building something together gives me immense joy.”
“When my grandma on his side passed, my siblings over there were like, ‘Y’all got a sister that can really sing, you should meet her,'” Hudson shared, highlighting the role her extended family played in facilitating these reunions.
She emphasized the importance of family connections in her own life as a mother to 14-year-old David Daniel Otunga Jr., whom she shares with ex-partner David Otunga. Hudson discussed her decision to prioritize her son’s connection to his extended family, moving back to Chicago before settling in Los Angeles to nurture those relationships.