EBONY, today unveiled its special September digital issue with Academy Award-winning actress and GRAMMY Award-winning recording artist Jennifer Hudson gracing its cover.
In an ode to her role as the incomparable Aretha Franklin and in celebration of the release of Jennifer Hudson’s new film RESPECT – in theaters NOW – for EBONY’s September cover, she serves epic fall fashion in head-turning looks inspired by the Queen of Soul’s most iconic hits.
For the cover story, Hudson talks to journalist, content creator and personality Danielle Young about the responsibility of taking on the role of playing the Queen of Soul, how the experience of playing such an iconic figure in music inspired her to move forward in her own career and the importance of self-care.
Excerpts from EBONY’s Cover Story Interview with Jennifer Hudson:
On the Divine Moment of Portraying Aretha Franklin: “All I can say is that it’s God. I can’t say that I necessarily know, but I know when I’m there, especially with this particular project. It really hit close to home. It was led by real emotion that came from a real place.”
“Within my artistry, I go places that not everyone wants to go, [places] not everyone can handle, so it can be intimidating. It could be scary. And I think, at times, that’s the fear in people.”
“I feel as though I’m telling her story through my own pain. I don’t think I would have been able to do this when we first had a conversation about it. I needed to live. I needed to have my own experiences. Every tear, every emotion—it costs, so I [made sure to handle the role with care].”
On RESPECT: “I know we all have respect for Aretha Franklin, but by the time we get to the end of this film, I want them to have a newfound respect for her.”
On Self-Care: “I’m in a space where I’m all about self-care, and I feel like if folks don’t get it at this point, honey!”
“I’m one of those people—always concerned [about] everybody else. But now, I’m almost 40 years old…I’ve done did everything that’s been asked of me. So whether folks like it or not, it’s my turn now. I’ve turned into a self-care therapist. I’m on a journey to consider me…to please myself.”
“You don’t realize how much of a stranger you are to yourself until you [spend] time with yourself.”
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