The video captures the emotional moment when Sheryl Lee Ralph presents Jennifer Hudson with the Renaissance Award at the ABFF Honors 2026.
Here’s a summary of the key highlights:
Introduction by Sheryl Lee Ralph (0:00-1:39): Sheryl Lee Ralph expresses her honor in presenting the award, recalling a touching gesture from Jennifer Hudson when they first worked together.
Jennifer Hudson's Undeniable Talent (1:41-3:07): Ralph highlights Hudson’s powerful voice, which first gained attention 22 years ago, and how she has since expanded her career, built her own stage, and created her own lane, giving the world the "spirit tunnel."
"Dreamgirls" Legacy (3:08-5:58): Ralph, an original "Dream Girl" on Broadway, speaks to the significance of Hudson’s portrayal of Effie Melody White in the film adaptation, emphasizing how Hudson resurrected the role and showcased the power of Black stories and voices.
Journey to Stardom and EGOT Status (6:01-10:06): A video montage chronicles Jennifer Hudson’s rise from a Disney cruise singer to an "American Idol" contestant, her Oscar-winning role in "Dreamgirls," her Grammy-winning music career, Broadway success in "The Color Purple," Emmy for "Baba Yaga," and finally, her Tony Award for "A Strange Loop," making her the youngest woman and Black woman to achieve EGOT status.
Renaissance Woman Recognition (10:07-11:20): Hudson is celebrated for embodying the definition of a Renaissance woman, showing grace and unwavering strength through good times and hard, with unfaltering commitment to her family, community, faith, and art. The American Black Film Festival Honors proudly presents her with the 2026 Renaissance Award.
Jennifer Hudson's Acceptance Speech (11:33-17:00): An emotional Jennifer Hudson thanks Sheryl Lee Ralph, Nicole and Jeff for creating the space, and reflects on her journey as a young Black girl from Chicago. She emphasizes the importance of dreams, learning from failures, and bringing her son and other young boys to events like this to inspire them about their limitless potential and the greatness they can achieve. She concludes by saying, "to be young, gifted, and black. That's what this room is."