How 'The Voice' Judge Jennifer Hudson Tragically Lost Mom, Brother, and Little Nephew in a Day Due to Schoolmate

Jennifer Hudson lost her mother, brother, and nephew all at once. Although devastated by the tragedy, she found it in her heart to forgive the man who killed them, her elementary school classmate and brother-in-law.

Despite a remarkable and successful career, the most important thing for Jennifer Hudson is family. Jennifer mentions her family several times during interviews, claiming they supported and loved her.

She highlighted her mother, Darnell Donerson, being her rock and number one supporter throughout her career, despite being broken after being eliminated from "American Idol." She experienced cruelty on the show, but her mom never allowed her to give up.

Jennifer's career changed when she landed a starring role in the film "Dreamgirls," for which she won an Oscar. Her name became known internationally, and opportunities came left and right. Still, she maintained her close relationship with her mom. Jennifer revealed:

"Even when I moved out, I would go back home and lay in the bed with her. Any time I would wake up in the morning, there would be a text from my mother."

Jennifer also had a good relationship with her brother Jason Hudson, sister Julia King, and nephew Julian King. Jennifer's sister had once been married to the singer's elementary school classmate, William Belfour, whom the singer always disliked.

In fact, Jennifer even disapproved of him when her sister began dating him. "We did not like how he treated her, and I didn't like how he treated my nephew," she reasoned.

William once argued with Julia and threatened to take their son. When Julia told her mom, Darnell said, "Over my dead body." Unfortunately, that was what happened.

Jennifer Hudson Lost Her Family Overnight

Because the award-winning actress and singer was used to receiving texts from her mom, she knew something was wrong when Darnell didn't message on October 24, 2008. She initially thought it was strange for her mom to miss a text, but little did she know her life was to change forever.

That same day, Julia entered the home she shared with her family and found a horrifying scene. Jennifer's mother and brother were murdered in cold blood and left in their home. A few days later, Julian, whom Jennifer was close to, was also found dead in an SUV. According to investigators, William killed Julia's family out of jealousy when he learned she had been dating another man.

Although grief-stricken and devastated, Jennifer made her way to court to face William. During the trial, Jennifer revealed her disapproval of him alongside other family members from the beginning. Still, Julia married the man secretly, without their loved ones in attendance. It wasn't until months later that Jennifer learned of the marriage.

According to the star, David saved her life and became the best therapy amidst pain and heartbreak.

Julia also talked about William's extreme jealousy during their relationship, so much so that he would get mad when their son kissed her. Although the Hudsons asked the media for privacy during such a painful time, news outlets continued to report on the case.

Jennifer Hudson's Son Saved Her Life after Her Family's Death

The court found William guilty of three life sentences for murdering Jennifer's mother, brother, and nephew. He was also charged with residential burglary and home invasion. However, he maintained his stand at being innocent until the very end. During the hearing, the judge told William:

"Your soul is as barren as dark space."

Although grateful justice was served, nothing can compensate for Jennifer's loss. She was broken and devastated, with only her sister left to understand the situation. Soon, Jennifer and Julia started a foundation in honor of Julian, giving back to less fortunate children.

Jennifer's perspective of life changed through her generosity and the impact she has made on communities. She even found it in her heart to forgive William, the man who took away the most important people in her life.

Jennifer later continued her mom's legacy by trying to be just as wonderful of a mom to her son, David Otunga Jr. According to the star, David Jr. saved her life and became the best therapy amidst pain and heartbreak. The "Where You At" singer said:

"I went from being an aunt, having a mom, and being a child to not having a mom, becoming a mom, and raising my own child. I tell David [now six] all the time, 'You saved my life.'"

Jennifer shares her son with her ex-fiance, David Otunga. The pair dated for a year and got engaged in 2008. However, nearly a year later, the two called off their engagement. Jennifer claimed her partner was abusive, and she filed a protective order against him.

People began to believe their romance more when Jennifer and Marlon did not address the rumors regarding their off-screen relationship.

The pair reportedly separated because of accusations involving Jennifer's infidelity with music producer Mali Music. Rumors about their close relationship as they collaborated at work swirled alongside hearsay of the singer dating Black Eyed Peas' Will.i.am.

Fans also believe Jenniffer dated actor Marlon Wayans in 2021. At the time, Jennifer was starring in Aretha Franklin's biopic, "Respect," playing the titular character, while Marlon took the role of Ted White, her on-screen love interest and first husband.

The pair's on-screen chemistry was undeniably strong, leading fans to believe their relationship continued when cameras stopped rolling. People began to believe their romance more when Jennifer and Marlon did not address the rumors regarding their off-screen relationship.

Like Jennifer, Marlon Wayans is an established actor and comedian with several on-screen productions under his belt. The "White Chicks" actor is one of nine siblings from a family of talented entertainers.

His brother, Dwayne Wayans, is a film composer and isn't often seen in the spotlight. Similarly, his other brother, Keenen Ivory Wayans, also works behind the scenes as a show creator, writer, director, producer, and host. Marlon's other siblings made their way to the entertainment scene as well, whether working in front of or behind a camera.