Jennifer Hudson, the multi-talented EGOT winner known for her powerful vocals and captivating acting, has navigated her romantic life with a blend of privacy and public milestones. Her journey through love has seen long-term commitments, a significant engagement, and a recent, publicly confirmed partnership, reflecting a preference for deep connections over fleeting romances.
One of Hudson's earliest known significant relationships was with her childhood sweetheart, James Peyton. Their romance spanned a considerable period, from 1999 to 2007, marking a foundational eight years in her personal life before her rise to global stardom. This long-term connection highlighted her inclination towards stable and enduring partnerships from a young age.
Following her relationship with Peyton, Jennifer Hudson entered a highly publicized engagement with David Otunga, a professional wrestler and lawyer. The couple first met in 2007 and became engaged in September 2008, with Otunga proposing with a custom-designed ring. Their relationship quickly became a prominent fixture in entertainment news, as fans followed their journey.
In August 2009, Hudson and Otunga welcomed their son, David Daniel Otunga Jr., into the world, solidifying their family unit. Their relationship, though largely private, was often highlighted by their shared commitment to their son and their respective careers. They were a visible couple on red carpets and at public events for many years.
Despite their long engagement and shared child, Hudson and Otunga's relationship eventually came to an end. After nearly a decade together, the couple announced their split in November 2017. The breakup was followed by a contentious custody battle over their son, which garnered significant media attention before being resolved. Hudson's representative confirmed the separation, stating, "They have been in the process of ending their relationship for a number of months."
In recent years, speculation began to swirl around Jennifer Hudson's romantic life, particularly concerning her connection with Grammy-winning rapper and actor Common. The two artists first sparked dating rumors in 2022 while working together on the film Breathe. Despite being spotted together on several occasions, both remained tight-lipped about the nature of their relationship, opting for privacy.
However, in January 2024, Common seemingly confirmed their romance during an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show. When asked by Hudson about his relationship status, Common responded, "I'm in a relationship that is with one of the most beautiful people I've met in life." He further elaborated, stating, "This relationship is a happy place for me." Hudson herself later affirmed her happiness in the relationship, telling Gayle King that her status was "more sophisticated than boo'ed up."
Their shared background as Chicago natives and their mutual respect for each other's careers have been cited as strong foundations for their bond. Common has openly expressed his deep admiration for Hudson, hinting at a serious future for the couple. In interviews, he has discussed the possibility of engagement and marriage, stating, "If I'm going to get married, it's to her."
Jennifer Hudson's romantic history, while not extensive in terms of the number of partners, is marked by significant, long-term relationships. From her childhood sweetheart to her lengthy engagement and now her confirmed romance with Common, her journey reflects a consistent pursuit of meaningful and lasting connections. Her approach to love, often kept private, reveals a woman who values stability and genuine partnership as she continues to thrive in her multifaceted career.