Jennifer Hudson Is Returning to ‘American Idol’ For Next Week’s ‘Disney Night’
Twenty-two years after she rose to fame as a finalist on American Idol, Jennifer Hudson is heading back to where it all began.
During last night’s episode of the iconic series, it was announced that Hudson will join judges Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan for the upcoming Disney Night, which will take place on April 20.
Hudson’s return will mark her first appearance on the American Idol stage since 2015. It will also be the first time she has returned in a mentoring role for finalists.
Photo: ABC
Her return comes as the Top 9 contestants prepare to perform Disney songs live in a bid to secure their place in the Top 7.
Hudson Has Become an Entertainment Powerhouse
Hudson, of course, has had an illustrious career since her time on American Idol.
After finishing seventh in the competition, she has sold millions of albums, launched the successful The Jennifer Hudson Show, and become one of just a select group of artists to achieve EGOT status.
Jennifer Hudson is returning to American Idol. Photo: Britannica
Later this year, she will return to Broadway for a revival of Dreamgirls.
‘Disney Night’ on ‘American Idol’
Before reprising her Academy Award-winning role, however, Hudson will help the next generation of singers navigate the challenges of American Idol.
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Disney Night on American Idol will air next Monday at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.
It will then be available to stream the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.
(Photo Illustration by Mateusz Slodkowski/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
