When Chicago native Jennifer Hudson made her national debut as a contestant on American Idol in 2005, the nation new she had a voice. But we didn't find out that she could also act until her role as Effie White in the film adaption of Dreamgirls.

Although Dreamgirls featured an all-star cast, including Jamie Foxx, Beyoncé, Anika Noni Rose and more, it was Hudson's breakout role and emotional performance of "And I Am Telling You" that captivated audiences. For that, she won a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress on Jan. 15, 2007.

The award catapulted Hudson's career as she went on to win a total of 29 awards for her performance in Dreamgirls. Additionally, the next March, she became the first African-American singer to grace the cover of American Vogue magazine.

Follow Dominique Zonyéé on Twitter: @DominiqueZonyee.

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(Photo: DreamWorks Pictures)