Jennifer Hudson: I was secluded from everything

Jennifer Hudson talks with the press about the movie "Winnie", a Winnie Mandela biopic last month in Cannes, France. (Photo by Marie Lora/CNN)

By EVA VASQUEZ, Special to CNN

Story Created: Jun 29, 2010 at 10:39 AM PST

Story Updated: Jun 29, 2010 at 10:39 AM PST

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(CNN) -- In September 2008, Jennifer Hudson was on top of the world with a Grammy, a Golden Globe and a debut album under her belt, not to mention a handsome man in her life.

But less than a month later her world came crashing down with the shocking deaths of her mother, brother and 7-year-old nephew. The actress opened up about this tragic turning point in her life for the first time last night during her "Behind the Music" special on Vh1.

"It was all like a blur, it was surreal. It was like I was outside myself," Hudson said, adding that she spent two weeks straight inside of her room. "I was secluded from anything that was going on."

Hudson understandably had to take a step back from her blossoming career. When she was asked to do a film, she turned it down saying, "I have to adjust to who I am. I can't be another character."

It wasn't until the 2009 Grammys that Hudson felt ready to make a public appearance. Not only did she win the award for Best R&B Album, she accepted the award from her life-long idol, Whitney Houston. "I really cannot put into words how special that moment was for me," Hudson told VH1.

Now the still-healing Hudson is an adoring mother to her son, David Daniel Otunga Junior. "He makes me feel like the most special person," she said.

As she continues to push forward, Hudson said her lost family members still shine through in her life. "My brother drives me in my music, my son reminds me of my nephew, and being a mother reminds me of my mother."

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norma said on Saturday, Jul 10 at 3:47 PM

Jennifer Hudson and her family had to deal with unimaginable grief. I am just honored to know that her gorgeous baby boy, her very handsome finace, and the sweet tune of music is helping her cope with the tragedy of her family members. I love how she interact with her son. They are both very happy togather. The tripple threat super star is about to make head weaves again. Jen has a new album on the way as well as a new movie. Jennifer Hudson is a class act, and I love her warm spirit.

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