Jennifer Hudson's Missing Nephew Found Dead
The FBI has confirmed that it was indeed the body of Jennifer Hudson's 7-year-old nephew Julian that was found inside an SUV today, CNN reports.
This is a heartbreaking development in a tragedy that began to unfold last Friday when Jennifer's mother Darnell Donerson and brother Jason Hudson were found shot dead in their Chicago home on Friday, and her nephew Julian was reported missing.
Jennifer posted a reward of $100,000 for the safe return of her nephew on her MySpace page this weekend.
Julian was the son of Jennifer's sister Julia.
Julia's estranged husband and Julian's stepfather, a parolee named William Balfour, is considered a person of interest in the case. He has been questioned by police and is being held on a parole violation, although he has not been changed with any crime in connection with the case.
Our hearts go out to Jennifer, who came out of nowhere to make a name for herself as a contestant on American Idol three years ago then went on to win an Oscar for her portrayal of Effie in Dreamgirls, and her sister Julia.
If you'd like to offer some words of support, please post them here, and we will do our best to make sure Jennifer is aware of the messages.
(Image courtesy of Getty)
To the Hudson Family:
Please accept my heartfelt condolences in this awful tragedy. Losing loved ones in such a terrible way is terribly heart wrenching. Just know you are loved and adored by many who may not know you but admire the strength, courage, and integrity you have always shown us.
Peace,
John
Posted by: John Dixon | October 27, 2008 at 12:17 PM
Dear Jennifer,
I'm so sorry for what happen to your family.My prayers go out to you and your family.Always remember that "God" doesn't put anything on us that we can not bear!The load may be heavey but we will get through our trials and tribulations as long as we keep our faith and trust in him. may "God" b;ess you Jennifer And your family "God" loves you and so do i
Sincerely,
ya,# one fan
Zenah
Posted by: Zamarri | October 27, 2008 at 12:24 PM
Hudson Family and Friends:
Our prayers and thoughts are with you in this difficult time. May you find peace and comfort in the arms of those who love you, and may God guide you through this loss. In Him you will find strength.
My sincere condolences,
Sebastian
Posted by: Sebastian Cancino | October 27, 2008 at 12:31 PM
To the Hudson family...
I cannot even imagine the grief all of you must be suffering right now. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and I hope that your loved ones surround you and keep you close to support you in these trying times ahead of you. If this message from a stranger from NC can make you feel better even for a moment at least that's a little something I can do...stay strong...all of you.
Posted by: Lyle in chapel hill nc | October 27, 2008 at 01:02 PM
Miss Hudson-
I am sorry to hear about this horrific thing that has happened to your family. It saddens & sickens me that there are people out there like that. Stay strong.
Posted by: Matthew | October 27, 2008 at 01:06 PM
Dear Jennifer and family:
Please know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of so many.
Posted by: Mike | October 27, 2008 at 01:32 PM
Dear Jennifer:
My most heart-felt condolences to you and your family in this horrible time of need. I pray you find peace and solace through your grief. I also pray that the person(s) responsible be brought to swift and severe justice.
Posted by: cocomin | October 27, 2008 at 01:36 PM
Jennifer,
I just want you to know you are in my thoughts and prayers. I'm sorry for the pain your family and friends are going through. I did happen to watch your playlist on MTV Hits and seen your video for Spotlight. I wish the spotlight had your nephew back.
Respectfully,
Randy
Posted by: Randy | October 27, 2008 at 02:03 PM
You are all in our thoughts and prayers as you go through this hard time and we are all here to support you.
God bless
Jeremy
Posted by: Jeremy | October 27, 2008 at 02:05 PM
dear Jennifer,
Ive never done this before, but I am such a fan of yours. I think your talent is unbelievable. I am so saddened by your loss and I pray that you find peace in knowing that others are with you during this tough time.
Prayerfully,
Nick
Posted by: Nick | October 27, 2008 at 02:19 PM
dear Jennifer,
Ive never done this before, but I am such a fan of yours. I think your talent is unbelievable. I am so saddened by your loss and I pray that you find peace in knowing that others are with you during this tough time.
Prayerfully,
Nick
Posted by: Nick | October 27, 2008 at 02:19 PM
Dear Jennifer,
I understand how difficult has been for you this unexpected event in your life. Some angels made earlier transition in your life but always remeber that God is with you and in you ALL the time. It is in you right now! Your family know that another angel "you Jennifer" it's still here for continue the mission. Please continue to shy and bright our lives I am sure that you family knew it. As of matter fact they never left they still here with you all the time on mental and spiritual levels. Be strong girl and always remember to remember who you are. Come to visit us in California sometime.
I love all of you!
David Araujo
Berkeley, California.
Posted by: David from Brazil | October 27, 2008 at 02:27 PM
Jennifer,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences at this most difficult of times. Know in your heart, that all of us are together with you, under God's love, compassion and grace.
Please take care,
Brian
Posted by: BrianKH | October 27, 2008 at 02:48 PM
Dear jennifer, Julia and family and friends,
From around the world comes heartfelt sorrow and sincerest sympathy in this most trying and tragic of times. God may never show us the answers or the reason but your faith in him will make this unbearable time less heartbreaking. No words will ever sooth your spirit right now but knowing the world is there for you hopefully comforts in some way. My deepest love and affection God Bless Jim K NY
Posted by: jim k | October 27, 2008 at 02:50 PM
To Jennifer and Family:
My deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies go out to you in this very difficult time of need. We, the Fans, love you and cherish you with all our hearts and will be here for you as you have been there for us through your music and your full on support of our community. It breaks my heart to see one of my most favorite artists of all time have to go through this; please stay strong. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family.
Love,
Marcus Anthony
Posted by: Marcus Anthony | October 27, 2008 at 02:53 PM
Dear Jennifer,
I'm so sorry to hear about your losses. It's a tragic thing to have to go through. Keep your head up, you've got a lot of supporters behind you. My condolences go out to you and your family. May you all find peace in the situation. Take care Jennifer!
Bradley
Posted by: Bradley | October 27, 2008 at 02:55 PM
Dear Jennifer - I am so saddened to hear of the horrifice tragic loss of your Mom and brother. I can't image the grief or sadness you feel. Then to find our your little nephew is gone is so hard to take. My heart goes out to you, your sister, and your family. Know you are in my prayers and thoughts. I pray these 3 family members are at peace with the Lord. I pray the Lord will give you strengh during this sad time and in the days ahead.
Take care sweet Jennnifer and family. We all love you!
Marc Adams
Posted by: Marc Adams | October 27, 2008 at 03:17 PM
you're in my thoughts and prayers Jennifer. I believe strength and clarity will be in your path and that you'll feel our love, prayers and our arms wrapped around you. "to tell those who cry..to tell those who simply try to survive....grace will abide"
Posted by: danny | October 27, 2008 at 03:21 PM
Hey Jennifer,
I'm really sorry for your losses and the dramatic tragic that is happening to your family. I'm hoping it will wound up to the best, and your nephew will be found safe and sound.
I'm a great fan of yours, as a matter of fact my friends say i am the male version of Effie.
I cannot do much, but I hope this will give you the strength to go through such a hard and rough time.
My heartfelt condoleances to all your family.
Peace to you
Cherif
Posted by: Cherif | October 27, 2008 at 03:23 PM
Jennifer,
This story hits home for all of your fans. When I first heard the news I was extremely ill. I wish you nothing but strength & courage during this trying time. The lord has your family in his hands taking very good care of them & I know you will hurt for sometime but don't ever think for one minute that your fan base is not going to be there for you! As a fan my heart aches for you, you will get through this, time heals all. You are a beautiful person inside & out with so many amazing goals accomplished thus far!! You & your family are in my prayers!! Stay strong baby girl!! ♥♥♥♥♥
Posted by: James R. McClelland | October 27, 2008 at 03:27 PM
I am sorry for your tragic loss's and I will keep you and rest of your family in my prayers. Stay strong Jennifer. God is watching over you.
In Gods Name,
Peter
Posted by: Peter | October 27, 2008 at 03:44 PM
Dear Jennifer
May the good Lord hold tight to you and your family during this awful time. your fans love and support you.
Patrick
Posted by: Patrick | October 27, 2008 at 03:50 PM
Please accept my heartfelt condolences in this awful tragedy. Losing loved ones in such a terrible way is terribly heart wrenching. Just know you are admire by many who may not know you but repspect the strength and courage, you have always shown. May you gain peace in your time of sorrow
Posted by: Mark | October 27, 2008 at 04:02 PM
Please accept my sincere condelences in this senseless heartless crime. May you and your family be blessed in this time of need.
Posted by: James O. Phillips | October 27, 2008 at 04:49 PM
My prayers and thoughts with you Jennifer. For a very talented and gifted woman to go through this tragedy, be blessed and stay strong.
Posted by: Scott | October 27, 2008 at 04:51 PM
Dear Jennifer,
I'm not going to pretend to know what you and your family are going through.But I can only imagine all the hurt, pain and suffering you must be going through. I know if I lost the people I love more then the world. I would probably would lose it. Jennifer you are a beautiful strong women , you defintely showed Simon Cowell he was wrong about you. So find that strength again and you deal with it how you want. Don't let others tell you how to morn in a certain way. Hell I'm a 35yo man and I cry everytime I need to. hope this helps a little bit.
Your Friend,
Gene Chilson
Posted by: Gene Chilson | October 27, 2008 at 05:17 PM
To Jennifer and family:
I want to let you know that you are all on my prayers, life can really turn around sometimes and slapt us on the face, dont try to be strong now, be urself, cry if you need to, and sorround urself with those that make you feel good, that's is the best you can do at this moment, and believe me...you have a place in my heart, Jennifer, you are unbelievable, talented, and beautifull...hang in there, it will all get better, i promisse you.
your Brasilian fan
Fabio Pereira
Miami.Fl
Posted by: Fabio Pereira | October 27, 2008 at 05:23 PM
I am thinking about you and worry about you and your family and how you will get through this awful time. My thoughts are with you with love.
Posted by: William Heimer MD | October 27, 2008 at 05:24 PM
Jennifer and Hudson family,
There are no words to describe this tragic time you are experiencing. I can only hope that it does get easier for you and your family as time passes on. My heart goes out to each individual that is affected by the loss of some incredible people in your life. Keep on performing and when you sing do it in honor of your family each and every day.
Much love,
Brett
Posted by: Brett | October 27, 2008 at 05:26 PM
Jennifer,
I can not imagine, nor will I try to imagine what you and your family are going through during this very difficult time in your life. This world is full of hatred, and those that do not value life as they should. My partner and I will keep you and your family in our prayers during this time. We will also pray for the speedy capture of this cruel, hateful, and uncaring person, if a person is what you want to call him or her. May God be with you and your family during your time of need, and offer you the love support and guidance your hearts will long for.
With love,
Stephen T. and Michael S.
Posted by: Stephen Thompson | October 27, 2008 at 05:47 PM
Dear Jennifer,
When I began to read of this tragedy you have been experiencing last Friday my heart dropped. To lose so may loved ones in such a short period of time truly is horrific. Please know that for every time you are sad, feeling down, in grief or depressed there are many people thinking of you. You are not alone and please remember to talk to people. A problem shared is a problem halved and there is always somebody willing to listen. Open up, speak to people and remember. Remember your Mother, Brother and Nephew as you loved them and surround yourself with those who care for you and love you.
My deepest sympathy and support is with you.
Daniel
Posted by: Dan | October 27, 2008 at 05:49 PM
My heart goes out to you Jennifer Hudson, your sister Julia, and all of your family. I hope all of our sincere heart felt responses will be as much of a blessing to you as your talent is to us. I may not have all the right words but I hope and pray that you and your family stay strong through this difficult time.
Posted by: bruce | October 27, 2008 at 06:08 PM
You people kill me. "If you're a GAY fan of Jennifer Hudson's and want to reach out to here". Get a clue how about if you're a fan of Jennifer Hudson's. This is a sad situtation and as with time and time again WE as or better yet Gay.com would still like to single us out as GAY FANS. Get a clue people.
Posted by: Scot | October 27, 2008 at 06:24 PM
Hey Jen,
Hang in there, I know this might be the hardest thing that you will ever have to go through in your lifetime... But if you hang in there, you will see that god has a way of making things work out.. My prayers go out to you and your family...
Love ya,
Xae
San Diego, CA
Posted by: Xae | October 27, 2008 at 06:29 PM
Jennifer,
I send you and your family Gods, peace, compassion, and most of all strength. As one person said above take your time and allow God to help you through this. Just know whatever road you decide to take that you will always have a fan in me. You and your family will continue to be in my prayers.
Always,
Ron Smith
Posted by: Ron S | October 27, 2008 at 06:32 PM
Dear Jennifer...
My heart is breaking for you. From the moment you stepped into the spotlight, it was so easy for fans to connect with you. You are so real, so open and such a positive example of someone who has a dream and works to make it come true.
People can't help but feel they know you. I hope that in this time of great sadness, you can feel our prayers and thoughts going out to you, your sister and your family. I cannot imagine the depth of pain you must be feeling and it is my sincere prayer that you find peace from your higher power and comfort when you most need it.
So often, fans and the whole fame thing must be such a burden. But know that those of us who admire you hope we can help with our prayers and thoughts. There are so many things in this world that we cannot control or begin to understand - may the positive energy sent your way help you feel less alone as we all try to navigate this life.
Posted by: Tony Phillips | October 27, 2008 at 06:33 PM
Dear Jennifer and Hudson family,
Jennifer you have been an inspiration to many that you will never know. Death, no matter how it comes, is something you can never prepare for. What a senseless and tragic loss for you and your family. You will remain forever in our thoughts and prayers.
Tim Britt
NC
Posted by: Tim | October 27, 2008 at 06:39 PM
Please accept my condolences and prayers during this time. You have brought joy to so many, hopefully you can take a bit of strength from all of us.
Hugs,
Dan
Posted by: Dan | October 27, 2008 at 06:46 PM
To the Hudson Family,
"Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted"
Posted by: Justin Ware | October 27, 2008 at 06:56 PM
Jennifer -
My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. I know you were very close with your family, and I wish there was something that would help you and your family through this horrible tragedy. God bless you hon.
Posted by: eurocheese | October 27, 2008 at 07:02 PM
it is a shame that jennifer hudson worked so hard to get where she is only to fall so far. but in every tragedy there is an angel behind to clean up the mess. keep the faith and god bless.
Posted by: will hossl`er | October 27, 2008 at 07:21 PM
Jennifer,
I just wanted to express my deepest and heartfelt sympathy regarding the recent tragedy in your life. I want you to know that I think that you are incredibly talented and a beautiful person inside and out. Just remember that what doesn't kill us ultimately makes us stronger, and that God is in control and will take care of his children. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Stay strong and keep the faith! I know that you will make it through! All my Love, Your Number One Fan, Pete :-)
Posted by: Pete | October 27, 2008 at 08:25 PM
Dear Jennifer,
No words can adequately express the grief you are experiencing. Hoping that your faith will give you comfort at this time in your life and understand that millions of your fans are thinking of you.
Posted by: John | October 27, 2008 at 08:46 PM
I could never imagine what you are thinking or feeling right now. But I know your music always makes me happy, and for that I have always cherished it.
You are a strong woman... and you'll make it through this tough time. There are many around the world right now praying, and thinking about you...hoping you're alright.
Please be strong. People are all around you that love you and that will never change....
It's sad that there are a few less today. :(
Posted by: Mike Gregerson | October 27, 2008 at 09:17 PM
My sincerest condolences to you and your family. I pray for your strength in this very hard time. And I send my love.
Posted by: philip ottenbrite | October 27, 2008 at 09:21 PM
May God Bless you during this hard time in your life. May the Lord Jesus Christ lay his hands of comfort on you and your family. I am truly sorry that this had to happen...
Posted by: Mark | October 27, 2008 at 09:38 PM
jennifer, my thought and prayers go out to you and your family in this tragic time of need. i know my words are few, i hope they find their way to you heart. please accept my heart felt condolences. please remember that god listens and knows what is in your heart.
love frankie
Posted by: frankie | October 27, 2008 at 09:45 PM
Wow, Am so sorry for your loss! I really feel your pain and hurt that such a tragedy has to come to a sweet person as yourself. May God give you strength to get over this difficult hurdle and may justice be served for this horrid action.. May my prayers help you heal any sorrow that is out there..
Posted by: Freddie | October 27, 2008 at 10:01 PM
Jennifer & family, 1st of all my heart goes out to u and your family, may God give u the strength and courage, and the peace in your hearts!!!! 2nd: I voted for u Jennifer for AI, cause u have a beautiful voice!! I am deeply sorry for your loss! Stay strong, and never give up, just pray if u feel helpless and weak, God will help u through!!!! I love ya girl!!!! XoXoXo
Posted by: Timmy Channell | October 27, 2008 at 10:02 PM
It's just amazing to me how she has such amazing stardom then such unimaginable tragedy
Posted by: gary | October 27, 2008 at 10:33 PM