STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

Jennifer Hudson Denies Turning Down Precious Role Over Weight

Says reports that she didn't want to pack on pounds for the part aren't true.

Jennifer Hudson didn't turn down the lead role in Precious because she would have had to gain weight for the part, the actress claims.
Hudson tells TMZ, "I did NOT turn down the role because of the weight thing ... I turned it down because I felt it was just too graphic for me at that time."
That contradicts a statement Hudson made on Dateline and stated in her book just weeks ago, when she said, "I would have had to be the big girl again." When asked if she felt playing a heavy character would typecast her, she replied, "I don't like the idea of being boxed into anything."
The role, of course, eventually went to Gabourey Sidibe and launched her career. As for Jennifer, she has a number of upcoming projects — including a role as Winnie Mandela in a biopic called Winnie, and a lead in The Three Stooges — all of which will allow her to stay in her skinny jeans.

BET.com is your #1 source for Black celebrity news, photos, exclusive videos and all the latest in the world of hip hop and R&B music.

(Photo: Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images)

Latest News

Subscribe for BET Updates

Provide your email address to receive our newsletter.


By clicking Subscribe, you confirm that you have read and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge our Privacy Policy. You also agree to receive marketing communications, updates, special offers (including partner offers) and other information from BET and the Paramount family of companies. You understand that you can unsubscribe at any time.