Throwback to 2017: When you’re at a promotional event for a hit musical, you never know when the spotlight might shift from the stage to the audience.
That’s exactly what happened in North Hollywood when Jennifer Hudson stunned the crowd — and even her castmates — by breaking into one of her powerhouse numbers from Hairspray Live!
Jennifer Hudson at the “Hairspray Live!” FYC Event held at Saban Media Center at the Television Academy in North Hollywood on June 9, 2017 (Credit: Adriana M. Barraza / WENN)
The television adaptation of the Broadway classic had premiered just a few months earlier in December, but Hudson made sure the excitement lingered well into the promo run.
Jennifer Hudson brightened the red carpet in a playful pink ensemble, punctuated by colorful Christian Louboutin “Corsankle” sandals that echoed the vibrant yellow flower detail on her top
Jennifer stepped away from her signature curve-hugging dresses and embraced a surprisingly festive look. She paired a pink long-sleeved top with a deeper-toned pencil skirt, creating a bold yet polished color-block effect.
To complete the ensemble, she slipped into Christian Louboutin’s striking “Corsankle” sandals — a shoe celebrated for its architectural flair.
True to its name, the design features corset-inspired lacing that wraps gracefully across the foot, secured by a broad ankle cuff that adds structure and drama. The silhouette has been crafted in both pointed-toe pumps and platform sandals, often offered in towering heel heights of 100mm or 150mm.
Jennifer Hudson’s Christian Louboutin “Corsankle” sandals popped on the red carpet with their corset lacing, bold ankle cuffs, and vibrant snakeskin pattern
Rendered in everything from supple suede and classic leather to exotic watersnake, the Corsankle is a quintessential Louboutin statement piece. And, of course, each pair is finished with the brand’s unmistakable glossy red sole — making Hudson’s footwear the vibrant exclamation point of her playful promotional outfit.
A closer look reveals Hudson’s hot pink pedicure peeking through the open toes of her striking multicolor “Corsankle” platform heels
The focal point of the look would have to be the yellow flower pinned to her shoulder, and from the looks of it, even Jennifer couldn’t get enough of the festive detail.
Candy Crush: Jennifer’s candy-colored rings left us with a little jewelry crush
In her colorful Louboutins, Jennifer Hudson’s 5’9” (175 cm) height and US shoe size 8 stood in sharp contrast to Kristin Chenoweth’s petite 4’10” (147 cm) frame and size 5.5 shoes.
Jennifer Hudson playfully towers over her Hairspray Live! co-star Kristin Chenoweth, highlighting their striking height and style contrast on the red carpet
Jennifer and the rest of the “Hairspray Live!” cast sat down for a panel interview in front of their adoring fans. Her co-stars Ariana Grande and Derek Hough were not present.
The entire hall was surprised when Jennifer suddenly burst into her hit, “I Know Where I’ve Been.”
Jennifer put on a powerful performance, hitting all the right notes at the right cues. Unsurprisingly, the “American Idol” star got a standing ovation.
From red carpet premieres to televised performances, Jennifer Hudson has never been shy about making bold style choices. Below, we’ve rounded up some of her most memorable shoe and fashion moments.
Jennifer Hudson’s Standout Shoe & Fashion Highlights
👠 Explore Jennifer Hudson’s Best Shoe & Fashion Moments:
- ✨ Jennifer Hudson’s Vintage-Inspired Heels While Channeling Aretha Franklin in Respect — Retro mustard tones and classic kitten heels for her Aretha Franklin biopic.
- 🐍 Jennifer Hudson in Yigal Azrouël and Christian Louboutin Python Pumps at Black Nativity Premiere — A dramatic black look punctuated with multicolor python “Decollete” pumps.
- 🖤 Jennifer Hudson’s Luxe Velvet Miu Miu Sandals at The Voice UK Launch — Black velvet block-heel sandals paired with sleek Altuzarra tailoring.
- ⭐ Jennifer Hudson’s Power Look in White Yigal Azrouël Peplum Dress and Saint Laurent Heels — A sharp peplum silhouette balanced with timeless pointed-toe pumps.
- 👢 Jennifer Hudson in Feather-Trimmed Pants and White Louboutin Suzi Folk Booties — A playful Kids’ Choice Awards look with statement boots.
- 💎 Jennifer Hudson’s Weight Loss Glow in Christian Louboutin “Diptic” Booties — A black-and-gold outfit polished with sleek ankle booties.
- 👗 Jennifer Hudson in Sleek Alexander McQueen and Manolo Blahnik “Chaos” Sandals — A cold-shoulder dress paired with timeless minimalist heels.
- 🌹 Jennifer Hudson Stuns in Christian Louboutin “Tres Frais” Sandals and Self-Portrait Mini — Satin ties and glittering textures complete her bold party look.
- 📏 Jennifer Hudson’s Height and Shoe Size — At 5’9” tall, she favors high heels from Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, and more.