Dallas/Fort Worth
Dreamgirls Star Jennifer Hudson Slams Accusation She's Homophobic
By Ross von Metzke

Dec 8, 2006

Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson is seemingly everywhere you look this month. From the cover of gay publications like The Advocate and HX Magazine to talk shows, industry events and even trade ads proclaiming her Academy Award worthy performance in Dreamgirls, the American Idol songstress is the definitive starlet of the moment.

She's also quoted in an interview with the Dallas Voice, saying, according to Life & Style Editor Daniel Kusner, that while she doesn't judge anyone, "according to what we're taught, and what it says in the bible," homosexuality is "a sin."

Now, the 25-year-old vocal powerhouse, who takes on the iconic role of Effie White when Dreamgirls opens nationwide Christmas Day, has responded to the accusation with a statement on her official Web site.

The following statement from Hudson is directly quoted from www.jenniferhudsononline.com.

"In a recent interview, I was asked how I reconciled being a Christian with performing at events for my gay fans. I find it upsetting that some folks equate being a Christian with being intolerant of gay people. That may, unfortunately, be true for some, but it is not true for me. I have talked often of my love and support of the gay community. I have said again and again that it was the gay community that supported me long before and long after American Idol, and kept me working and motivated. It is the gay community that celebrated my voice and my size and my personality long before Dreamgirls.

"Yes, I was raised Baptist. Yes, I was taught that the Bible has certain views on homosexuality. The Bible also teaches us not to judge. It teaches us to love one another as God loves us all. I love my sister, my two best friends and my director dearly. They happen to be gay. So what? While some search for controversy, I hope that my friends and fans who know me know where I stand."

The singer/actress signed the letter Jhud, as fans have lovingly come to call her.

In the Dallas Voice interview, Kusner asked Hudson about her religious upbringing and where she stood on gay marriage. Hudson said she'd never been asked her opinion on these issues before making the following statement.

"Everybody sins. No sin is greater or different than the other. To each his own. If it don't bother Jennifer, then Jennifer don't mind. I don't really even think about it because I don't believe in judging people for what they do."

In her interview with The Advocate, Hudson spoke of her love for the gay community. "I think the world of the gay community, and I feel like it's an honor. The gay community is the hardest community to please, so if they love me, I must be fierce, honey."