Jennifer Hudson Shows Us Where She’s At on ‘American Idol’

Jennifer Hudson returned to the site of her first taste of fame tonight, gracing the 'American Idol' stage to perform her latest single, the ballad 'Where You At,' from her newly released album, 'I Remember Me.'

Many pop culture watchers were shocked to the bone when Hudson didn't take home the 'American Idol' crown in 2004 during Season Three, during which she placed third. (The title went to Fantasia Barrino, for those keeping score at home and/or with short memories.) But Hudson won in the end, eventually nabbing a Best Supporting Actress Oscar in 2006 for her breathtaking, assured and unforgettable performance in the big-budget film 'Dreamgirls.'

Wearing her hair straight and blown back, and sporting a curve-hugging LBD*, Hudson owned both the stage and her song, making us once again wonder how the hell America could have voted her off the show seven years ago. But, we're guessing that shiny gold statue on her mantle is a pretty good consolation prize. Not only does Hudson's voice fill a room, she also projects an aura of grace and class that defines any true diva.

Well done, Jennifer. Well done.

* editors note: "LBD" = Little Black Dress. (Had to ask the wife.)

Watch Jennifer Hudson perform 'Where You At' on 'American Idol'