Sheryl Lee Ralph to Play Jennifer Hudson’s Mom on ‘Smash’

By On 08/14/2012 · 3 Comments · In Jennifer Hudson, Smash

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Vulture is reporting a brand new Smash hire. Sheryl Lee Ralph, who originated the role of Deena in Dreamgirls on Broadway will play Jennifer Hudson’s mom!

We can only imagine how excited Jennifer Hudson must be right now. Vulture has just learned exclusively that Sheryl Lee Ralph has been cast to play her mom on Smash. Ralph originated the role of Dreamgirls diva Deena Jones on Broadway (the part played by Beyonce in the 2006 film). But even more thrilling for J.Hud? Ralph also played the mother of Lauryn Hill’s character in Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit, the movie Hudson has publicly declared her all-time favorite film.

Jennifer Hudson plays Veronica Moore, a Tony-winning star “who reached [her] Broadway dream but paid a price for it.” Jennifer and Sheryl join Will and Grace star, Sean Hayes, Newsies, Jeremy Jordan, Theater Vet Andy Mientus, plus Krysta Rodriguez and Daniel Sunjata who are joining the 2nd season of the NBC musical drama.

Smash is set to return in January.

 

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  • http://twitter.com/doesmonaknow DoesMonaKnow

    I know Smash is being retooled but it still sounds like they are adding an awful lot of new cast members.

  • http://twitter.com/KariannHart Kariann Hart

    I know it will be an adjustment figuring this out.  Plus, it has been described as a musical comedy?  I think it will be a better show, though.

  • http://twitter.com/MikhailXO MichaelG (MikhailXO)

    I wasn’t a huge Smash fan (watched for several weeks, forgave them for the insipid story lines… as I was hoping it would succeed). But if you need to drastically retool after the first season…not sure it bodes well for series longevity.  Great show concept still so I hope they know what they’re doing…