Usher Reveals He Almost Starred In “Dreamgirls” With Jennifer Hudson

Jennifer Hudson had no idea—until now!

During a visit to The Jennifer Hudson Show on February 4, Usher shocked the audience (and Jennifer herself) by revealing that he was almost part of the 2006 hit movie Dreamgirls.

“You didn’t know that I was supposed to be a part of that movie,” Usher teased, “this movie you went on to win a major, major award for.”

“Are you talking about Dreamgirls? Wait, you were going to be in Dreamgirls?” Jennifer gasped. 

Usher nodded, explaining that he had been cast in the film but had to drop out due to his busy tour schedule at the time. While he didn’t specify the role, reports from 2005 suggest he was set to play C.C. White — Effie White’s brother. The part eventually went to Keith Robinson.

“I was so excited for what was getting ready to happen. [I] tried my hardest to kind of work around it, but, unfortunately, schedule just didn’t permit. I would have been a part of the history with you,” he shared.

Jennifer was just as surprised as the audience. “I didn’t even know this, y’all!” she told them, laughing.

Usher reassured her that, even though they didn’t share the screen, he still feels connected to the film and to her success. “…we all celebrate you for such an encouraging talent for our young women out here,” he said.

Not one to miss an opportunity, Jennifer quickly suggested they make up for lost time. “Well, since we didn’t get to work together on Dreamgirls, maybe one day we could do a duet or something,” she stated.

Without hesitation, Usher agreed.

Based on the hit Broadway musical, Dreamgirls followed the rise of a 1960s girl group and was loosely inspired by Diana Ross and The Supremes. The film, which starred Jennifer alongside Beyoncé and Anika Noni Rose, received eight Oscar nominations, with Jennifer taking home the award for Best Supporting Actress.