Quotes from Jennifer Hudson

When I'm acting I don't sing, and when I'm recording I'm not acting.

I didn't even know I was considered plus-size until I was on the red carpet here in L.A. one day and a lady said, 'How do you feel about being a plus-sized girl in Hollywood?' I was like, 'What's she talking about?'

I was a homebody growing up.

Embrace it. Especially because of the lives we live, a lot of times other people have to care for [our kids] and you have to have that mommy time, Get your sleep!

I have a serious love for clothes, like no other.

I'm proud to represent the average woman.

'American Idol' has changed the face of television.

There's something wonderful about entertaining people on vacation. Everyone is there to have a good time.

I didn't start singing with my eyes open until I was 19 - that's how shy I was!

I try to dress a little casual before my photo-shoots. I can be comfortable before I go into my... transition.

Ever since grammar school, I knew I wanted to be famous - I always wanted to be a singer.

I love being outside and feeling free, so I jog or ride my bike. Some days I play basketball or tennis.

I always say, you never know how much your parents loved you until you have a child to love.

I've always had a love for making things my own.

I love being nurturing and caring because I love to see other people happy.

Don't block your blessings. Don't let doubt stop you from getting where you want to be.

I slept with my mom until I was 16 years old.

I try to do everything to say, 'OK, will my mother like this? Will she be pleased? Will she be proud of that? How do I know she's happy and she's smiling down at me from heaven?' And that's what I try to go by and walk by.

What people need to know is that if you don't eat what you want, then you'll just continue to eat, because you're not fulfilled.

Long before 'American Idol', people used to call me a diva. And I be like, 'Hold on, are you calling me something else on the sly? You gonna call me a diva, call me a good diva.'

My son is very into music and really familiar with my voice.

My ultimate film role would be to play the queen of soul, Aretha Franklin.

All the ladies can feel sexy and have fun in my clothing and that makes me feel like I am offering something truly unique to the people who have been gracious enough to show me such love and support over the years.

Extreme exercise doesn't save you from poor food choices. It can be difficult to exercise and erase away that chocolate cake or pizza pie. It doesn't work that way.