Jennifer Hudson Honors Grandma’s 100th Heavenly Birthday
An Academy Award–winning artist shares a moving message about faith and family legacy now.
Image: Instagram
Jennifer Hudson took to Instagram this week to mark a century milestone for her late grandmother, Julia Kate Hudson. The Oscar and Grammy winner’s heartfelt post resonated with fans as she reflected on the faith and prayers that continue to guide her life.
Family Tribute
In her caption, Hudson wrote, “Happy 100th heavenly birthday to my late grandmother Julia Kate Hudson! I can still hear your beautiful voice. You were a woman of faith and I am so grateful that you instilled that in us. Thank you for the prayers, which are still carrying me today. We celebrate you, our matriarch, today and always!” The black-and-white portrait she shared shows her grandmother smiling gently, a timeless image befitting a matriarch whose influence spanned generations. Hudson’s simple but poignant words underscored the depth of gratitude she feels for those early lessons in hope and perseverance.
A Matriarch’s Legacy
Julia Kate Hudson’s legacy shines through the family stories Hudson has shared over the years. Though details about Julia’s own life remain private, her faith became an indelible part of her granddaughter’s journey. Hudson has often credited the prayers she received from her grandmother during pivotal moments in her life, from her breakout on American Idol to landing the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in Dreamgirls (2006). On the day she posted the tribute, fans and fellow celebrities flooded the comments with prayers, Bible verses and memories of the matriarch whose spirit lives on in Hudson’s work and charitable outreach.
Career And Faith
Since rising to prominence in 2004 on the third season of American Idol, Jennifer Hudson has balanced stardom with a strong spiritual foundation. Born in Chicago in 1981, she first gained acclaim for her powerhouse vocals, leading to a Golden Globe–nominated role in Dreamgirls and an Academy Award win in 2007 at age 25. Her self-titled debut album earned her two Grammy Awards in 2009, and she has since expanded her résumé to include film, Broadway and television production.
Beyond her accolades, Hudson’s connection to faith has been a recurring theme. In a 2016 interview, she spoke about the tragic loss of her mother and brother in 2008 and how prayer sustained her through grief. That same year, she launched the Julian D. King Gift Foundation to support young people in her hometown, carrying forward her grandmother’s legacy of compassion. Whether recording gospel-inspired tracks or offering words of encouragement on social media, Hudson often acknowledges the spiritual lineage she inherited.
Jennifer’s recent projects include a recurring role on a primetime drama and executive producing a Broadway revival. Yet even amid busy schedules, she remains committed to family milestones—pastor’s appreciation events, birthday celebrations and other gatherings she says keep her grounded.
Wrapped in gratitude and remembrance, the star’s Instagram message served as both eulogy and celebration. Her grandmother’s 100th heavenly birthday became an opportunity to remind followers of the power of faith, family unity and legacy.
Hudson’s tribute to Julia Kate Hudson closes with a promise: that the matriarch’s prayers will continue to carry her forward in every song she sings and every step she takes.
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