November 17, 2008

Jennifer Hudson Thanks Fans For Support

By Jocelyn Vena (MTV.com)

Jennifer Hudson is extending gratitude to her fans for their support in the wake of the tragic murders of her mother, brother and 7-year-old nephew last month in Chicago.

"I want to thank each and every one of you for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time," Oscar-winning singer and actress wrote on her MySpace page in a post titled "Thank You All."

"My sister and I take great comfort and strength from your love and concern," she added.

After a preliminary hearing on Monday, William Balfour, the only suspect named so far in the triple homicide of Darnell Hudson, Jason Hudson and Julian King, will remain in prison at least through December 3, when a full hearing will be held to determine if he violated his parole.

Despite her recent family tragedy, Hudson has given her blessing to the Gap to use her in their holiday ad campaign, according to E! Online. Over the summer, photographer Michael Thompson shot cheerful photos of her in a red turtleneck sweater for the ad. Gap spokesperson Olive Doyne said that though the company gave her the opportunity to back out, "She said she wanted to be a part of it and that we should move forward."

The ad, which reads "Shine Your Own Star," will run in magazines throughout the country and on billboards in Los Angeles and New York.