Respect for Aretha Franklin and Jennifer Hudson
Aretha Franklin and Jennifer Hudson deserve all the respect! There`s no question that Aretha Franklin has had an outstanding career, as well as Jennifer Hudson. While the two women have had successful stories, they share some personal struggles. Jennifer Hudson admits she would not have been able to portray the phenomenal Aretha Franklin if it weren`t for her own hardships.
Hudson explained to People.com this past July, "I don't think I would have been able to dig that deep or connect in that way had I not been through things myself.” Hudson connected Franklin because they both went through their own loss and grief. Hudson lost her mother, Darnell Donerson and her brother Jason. Her mother and brother were shot in their home in 2008.
Hudson wondered if she was the right choice to portray Franklin considering they have both been through dark times. Hudson explains to People.com, "In that moment, it clicked with me like, 'Is this what she saw in me?'”
Hudson compares her own life to Franklins by saying Aretha`s life was like a “blueprint” for her and her careern journey.
From Rogerebert.com Hudson states, “And when I think about all the other things that have gone into it, like the church, having a life where I’ve seen the highest of the highs and the lowest of the lows myself, you know what I mean? Her life being a blueprint for my career, being able to pay tribute to her so many times—just so many things that continue to unfold.”
After the release of Franklin`s biopic, Aretha, Hudson feels the singer’s presence with her every day, whether it's when she`s smiling or speaking. Hudson explained to Variety how the late Queen of Soul is still with her in many ways. Hudson told Variety how much she incorporates Franklin in her daily life. She explains, "Sometimes, while taking pictures with someone, I'm like, 'Oh wow, I'm smiling like Aretha, or, 'That response was more Aretha-like.'"
While Franklin and Hudson have gone through hard times, they still rose to the top and became superstar legends. It’s because of these hard times that these two women are where they are today. Now, millions can relate to them and to their music. Their music will continue to live on and inspire others for years to come.