We won’t know if Jennifer Hudson will receive Oscar love for her portrayal of Aretha Franklin in “Respect” until nominations are announced February 8, but the “Dreamgirls” breakout is set to pick up a major honor in the meantime. The Palm Springs International Film Awards has announced Jennifer Hudson will receive the Chairman’s Award at the ceremony set to be held January 6. Variety confirmed the news.
Directed by Liesl Tommy, “Respect” pays tribute to the iconic singer behind the film’s namesake song. The biopic, which Hudson also exec produced, dropped in August.
“In ‘Respect,’ Jennifer Hudson brings to life Aretha Franklin’s rise from childhood gospel singer to international star,” said festival chairman Harold Matzner. “Hudson transforms into the Queen of Soul singing her heart out in this legendary performance. It is our honor to recognize Jennifer Hudson’s phenomenal acting and singing talents with the Chairman’s Award.”
Hudson took home an Oscar in 2007 for her supporting role in “Dreamgirls.” That same year she was honored by Palm Springs International Film Festival with the Breakthrough Performance award.
Nicole Kidman, Amy Adams, and Regina King are among the previous recipients of the Chairman’s Award.
Other honorees at the 2022 event include Jane Campion (Director of the Year Award), Jessica Chastain (Desert Palm Achievement Award, Actress), Penélope Cruz (International Star Award, Actress), and Kristen Stewart (Spotlight Award, Actress).
The Palm Springs International Film Festival will take place January 6-17.
