Jennifer Hudson is opening up about continuing her talk show as two other daytime staples prepare to leave the airwaves. The Jennifer Hudson Show was recently renewed for a fifth season, just as The Kelly Clarkson Show and Sherri Shepherd’s Sherri announced their endings.
Clarkson confirmed her show will wrap after seven seasons, while Sherri was canceled after four. Hudson, however, says she hasn’t had much time to reflect on what their departures mean for her role. “They are amazing, both Kelly and Sherri, and we’re all in this together,” she told PEOPLE.
Supporting Fellow Hosts
Hudson praised both Clarkson and Shepherd, adding, “I just want to continue to make them proud and cheer them on whatever they decide to do in the future.” Shepherd has already vowed to keep fighting for her show, telling fans she’s “not ready to throw in the towel” and promising to spread joy in whatever form the program takes next.
Looking Ahead to Season 5
With her show renewed, Hudson is already thinking about future guests. Season 5 will continue the tradition of celebrities walking through the viral “Spirit Tunnel” before joining her on stage. Hudson says she’d love to welcome Barack Obama, Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, and Sean Penn to the set.
“I’ve been blessed to have a lot of great guests come to the show,” she said. “I would love to see Barack Obama come through the Spirit Tunnel. I would love to see Denzel Washington, Halle Berry. I want to say Cher, but she’s already been to the show.”
Expanding Her Reach
Beyond her talk show, Hudson is partnering with Credit One Bank to launch its new Cards on the Table game, designed to help players learn about financial responsibility. As an EGOT winner, she continues to balance her music, acting, and hosting career while carving out her space in daytime television.
