Jennifer Hudson has revealed that her true happy place isn’t just music or the energy of her talk show—it’s spending time on the phone with her boyfriend, rapper and actor Common.
The Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony-winning entertainer made the heartfelt admission during The Spotlight of Excellence panel hosted by Warner Bros. Television Group at the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival. The discussion offered insight into Hudson’s creative process, personal motivations, and what brings her joy—both on and off stage.
According to People Magazine, Hudson, 43, spoke about what keeps her in a joyful, grounded spirit. “That is a great question, but what gets me in this spirit? Well, definitely music. And then they Spirit Tunnel me all the time,” she said, referencing the popular recurring segment from The Jennifer Hudson Show where guests are welcomed with high energy and celebration.
She continued, “Sometimes I play music, of course, I talk to God.” Then, with a smile, she added, “I talk to that man of mine, too. He’s such a light, and he lifts my spirit so high. But sometimes it’s a lot going on.”
Hudson also described how the energy of her audience helps boost her mood, particularly during demanding days. “As soon as I meet the energy of the crowd, the audience, and then the guests,” she said, “I thrive off of it.” She added that seeing the enthusiasm from fans and audience members is what wakes her “right on up.”
Hudson and Common have been romantically linked since 2022, after they worked together on the film Breathe. Since then, the two have been spotted enjoying each other’s company at intimate dinners and seated courtside at basketball games.
In January 2024, Common made a special appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, where he appeared to confirm their relationship. “I’m in a relationship that is with one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever met in life,” he said, beaming.
Though both stars have kept their romance relatively low-key, their mutual admiration and support have been increasingly visible. Hudson’s recent comments offer a rare, sweet glimpse into how much Common means to her and how he continues to be a steady source of light in her life.
Balancing a thriving career with personal happiness is no small feat, but for Hudson, it seems that music, faith, and love are the anchors that keep her spirit soaring.