00:03Tonight, I have the great honor of introducing an extraordinary artist, an extraordinary human
00:10being, and a dear friend, the incomparable Jennifer Hudson. Jennifer is someone who has
00:20inspired me personally, and she has inspired millions more through her remarkable journey,
00:25her breathtaking talent, and her indomitable spirit. As we all witnessed earlier tonight,
00:31Jennifer possesses one of the most powerful and unmistakable voices of our time. From her
00:36Academy Award-winning performance in Dreamgirls to commanding the world's biggest stages,
00:41her voice can move us to tears, lift us to our feet, take us straight to church, and remind us
00:49time and again of the enduring power of hope. But here's what I've come to know about Jennifer.
00:55It's never been just about the voice. It's about the heart. And that, more than anything,
01:01is her superpower. Jennifer understands that success is not simply something to be celebrated.
01:07It's something to be used. She recognizes the responsibility that comes with the platform
01:13she has earned, and she uses it every single day to uplift, power, and connect people. And through
01:20the Jennifer Hudson Foundation, she has created a lasting impact by supporting changemakers who
01:25improve the lives of people in need. With a special focus on empowering young women and supporting
01:31families affected by HIV and AIDS, her work reflects both her deep generosity of spirit and her
01:38understanding of the challenges faced by underserved communities. She's a force for good. She's an inspiration
01:44and a living reminder of the powerful difference one person can make when talent is matched by purpose.
01:52And let's not forget, Jennifer Hudson is also one of the most accomplished entertainers of our
01:58generation. She is this, yes, she is the 17th performer and the youngest woman ever to achieve the EGOT.
02:14Earning an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony, and joining one of the most exclusive circles in
02:19entertainment. She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, was named one of Time Magazine's 100
02:25Most Influential People in the World, and her acclaimed talk show, now in its fifth season,
02:31has earned 18 Daytime Emmy nominations. Now, these are all remarkable achievements. But what makes
02:43Jennifer truly special is that despite all the accolades, she remains grounded in authenticity,
02:49generosity, and grace. She's an EGOT who never leads with ego. She leads with heart. So please join me
02:59in celebrating a true icon, a trailblazer, a philanthropist, and an artist whose voice,
03:05example, and impact will continue to inspire generations to come. Ladies and gentlemen,
03:11make some noise for Jennifer Hudson.
