Jennifer Hudson notes 20 year anniversary of her shocking boot from American Idol
On Sunday April 21, Jennifer Hudson noted the 20th anniversary of her shocking boot off of American Idol season 3.
Not only did voters eliminate Jennifer at the Top 7, but all three of the “divas” including LaToya London and eventual winner, Fantasia Barrino, hit the bottom three. The results shocked fans, to say the least. In the clip, Fantasia and Jennifer are in the bottom two as host Ryan Seacrest reveals that the person leaving the competition had the highest number of votes in a previous week.
When Ryan announced Jennifer’s elimination, the camera paned to shocked contestants, including teen crooner, John Stevens, who bore the brunt of that week’s results. He received death threats because some fans felt the young and inexperienced singer didn’t deserve his spot. He would leave the competition the following week. George Huff looked as if he was about to cry. The two were close friends. They are STILL close friends, as you might recognize George as one of Jennifer’s backup singers. Even judge Simon Cowell, often critical of Jennifer, looked shocked and upset.
Fantasia hugs Jennifer and says “You’re my American Idol!” Nevertheless, both singers went on to successful careers. Jennifer has won all four major awards–Oscar, Grammy, Emmy and Tony. She currently hosts her own popular daytime talk show. Fantasia is a respected R&B singer, whose recent turn as Celie in The Color Purple movie adaption of the Broadway musical received good reviews. Time magazine is celebrating her as one of their 100 most influential people for 2024.
Jennifer and Fantasia reunited on The Jennifer Hudson Show
Jennifer and Fantasia recently had a reunion on The Jennifer Hudson Show. She asked Fantasia what she remembered about competing on the season.
“We worked very very hard. I also remember building great relationships and being around great gifts. So iron sharpens iron and just being around you guys making a family and being up every morning away from our families but steady going because it was something that we all wanted.”
Fantasia added, “And now look!” Jennifer agreed, “Can you believe it!”
Jennifer wrote on Instagram alongside the clip: “On this day in 2004, I was eliminated from American Idol! But God turned it around for my good! From Idol to EGOT baby !!! 20 years later, and now back on TV with my own show,” Jennifer continued, “Never give up on your dreams, yal! If I can do it, so can u! If it’s not worth working hard for, it’s not worth it at all ! Remember nobody knows your potential the way you do. Just keep the faith, keep believing, and keep going!!!”
