Jennifer Hudson dropped by Live with Kelly and Ryan on Thursday, where she chatted about her days on American Idol in addition to honoring the late Aretha Franklin.
It was a reunion of sorts between Jennifer and American Idol host Ryan Seacrest. Jennifer came in 7th on season 3 which aired in 2004.
About her elimination, Ryan recalled, “I remember standing there at that results show with Simon Cowell,” Ryan joked that was back when Simon “looked youthful.” But then he remembered something Fantasia, who eventually went on to win the show, said to the just-eliminated Jennifer. “I remember when…Fantasia hugged you and said ‘You are mine.'”
Even though Jennifer went on to a successful recording and acting career, folks STILL remember her on Idol. “I have people coming up on the street to me like ‘I voted for you on American Idol’ I’m like–you do realize that was 15 years ago!”
Co-host Kelly Ripa wondered if seeing Ryan would trigger some sort of emotional distress in Jennifer.
“It’s your voice,” said Jennifer pointing to Ryan. “Think about it. He used to be like….’And the person going home this week is…’ So every Wednesday to this day I still get nervous!”
Still, Jennifer called Ryan “one of my favorite things from being on the show to this day.”
These days, Jennifer is a coach on The Voice US and UK. On the current US season, she coaches alongside American Idol OG winner, Kelly Clarkson. “She’s the best,” Jennifer said of Kelly. “We have such a good time together.”
In this clip, Jennifer talks about the late Aretha Franklin. The Queen of Soul had personally chosen Jennifer to play her in an upcoming biopic. Movie talks began 11 years ago after Jennifer won her Oscar for Dreamgirls. “It’s a huge job, I’m terrified,” said Jennifer.
