TOP TEN 08': #2 Jennifer Hudson 'Mixed Spotlight'

Much like her popular song "I'm Changing" from the hit 2007 'Dreamgirls' soundtrack, Jennifer Hudson's life in 2008 changed right before our eyes.

Beginning the year with news of her debut album, Jennifer Hudson stepped away from her character Effie White's shadow into a new era. Recording the debut album, Hudson nabbed Ne-Yo, Fantasia and T-Pain for what became a multi-Grammy Award-nominated debut.

Reaching May of 2008, Jennifer Hudson's work behind the camera in 'Sex In The City' was presented for the world to see. Sexy, beautiful and sassy, Hudson was quickly praised for her role in the film.

Enjoying the limelight again, Hudson stepped further into the ring with "Spotlight," her first single and video. With Ryan Gentles of Tyler Perry's What's Done In The Dark acting as her love interest, Hudson scored her first #1 R&B hit.

Riding through early fall in yet another hit film, 'The Secret Life of Bees', where she starred alongside Queen Latifah and Alicia Keys, Hudson seemed on top of the world with her self titled album hitting stores during the same time period.

In addition to the release of her debut album and film 'The Secret Life of Bees' Jennifer Hudson sported an engagement ring after dating former 'I Love New York' star David Otunga, otherwise known as 'Punk'.

On October 24, 2008 Jennifer Hudson endured a tragedy of epic porportions when her mother, brother and nephew were found murdered in Chicago. Captured on nearly every media outlet, Hudson's tragedy played out in front of millions as the singer seemingly remained strong throughout the ordeal of identifying her relatives and attending private services.

Fantasia Barrino and others flew to Chicago in support of the singer who endured an insurmountable tragedy.

Hudson's estranged brother was charged in connection with the murders weeks later but not before an intense media covered frenzy ensued over Hudson's family including her sister Julia Hudson, reported drug related troubles in recent years and the unexplained motive for the shocking triple homicide.

Understably quiet for the remainder of 2008, Jennifer Hudson thanked everyone for their support and well wishes via her publicist and blog.

Hudson is rumored to make a comeback in Feburary at the Grammy Awards where she is nominated for several awards.

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