Jennifer Hudson’s son, David Otunga Jr., is all grown up and fans can hardly believe their eyes. The 16-year-old made a rare social-media appearance looking all grown up at homecoming.
“DOJ Homecoming! Swipe to see Me as Homecoming #homecoming,” the teen’s father, David Otunga proudly shared side-by-side shots of himself from his own high-school dance and that of his son on social media.
Wearing black slacks, a crisp white button-up, and a navy blazer, David Jr. looked every bit of the gentleman. He finished the look with neat cornrows, a new style for him, since he’s usually seen rocking a big afro that his mom says he’s always been proud of, especially while attending a predominantly white school. His date matched his energy in a sparkly mini dress and sleek hairstyle, earning plenty of love in the comments.
One fan summed up the internet’s reaction perfectly, commenting, “I remember seeing him as a baby! Omg I feel old!”
Though the EGOT-winner keeps her son’s life largely out of the spotlight, she occasionally shares moments that highlight their close bond. When David turned 16 in August, the EGOT winner surprised him on the set of The Jennifer Hudson Show with a “spirit tunnel” birthday celebration. “Now of course yal know we had to serenade Doj with his own surprise birthday #SpiritTunnel, first thing in the morning on his bday!” she wrote on Instagram.
“… Now Team Jhud can y’all join the spirit tunnel and wish my baby a very Happy 16th Birthday!!! You know what to do! Happy 16th Birthday @d.o.j10.”
The daytime television host and former wrestler share one child from their 10-year relationship, which included a nine-year engagement before they split in 2017. Reflecting on her son’s growth, Hudson told Essence Magazine in 2024 that parenting a teenager feels like watching time speed up overnight.
“He went to sleep in the room, took a nap with his mohawk, and when I tell you he came out, had a whole new nose, and shot up. I was like, ‘Where did my child go? Who is this?’ That’s how quickly it happens,” she said.
“Each phase of raising a kid is different from the last. So, it’s like, okay, how do you need me now? How do I parent you now with where you are right now? We’re finding a new norm, and I’m preparing him for what’s to come.”
