The executive producer for the holiday special says Jennifer Hudson was chosen because she is one of the most generous artists he has ever worked with and she is spontaneously creative.
The show will be based on her life story and Chicago is the backdrop.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas especially on the Magnificent Mile. It's just one of several locations Oscar winner and singer Jennifer Hudson is taping her show - Home for the Holidays: A Christmas Special - to air next month on ABC7.
Earlier on Wednesday, Hudson went back to the place she says gave her the confidence to pursue a singing career-- Dunbar High School.
Before she took the stage for rehearsals, the new mom told ABC7's Janet Davies this trip was emotional because it was the first time her son, David, visited Chicago.
"He's a good baby," said Hudson.
It was at Dunbar High School where teachers say Hudson practiced and committed to her dream.
"One of the most determined students I have ever seen in my life. She would stand at that piano and say, 'I'm going to be a famous singer,'" said Shari Nichols Sweat, who teaches vocal at Dunbar.
The lucky audience members were honor roll students and participants in the After School Matters Program at Dunbar.
"I think the students contributed," said David Swift.
"It was great for the students to see someone that came from their school, grew up in the neighborhood to reach success that she has. It lets them know they can do anything they put their heart and mind to," said Tasleem Firdausee, Dunbar teacher.
"When she sang 'This Christmas,' that's my favorite song. It was good," said Mieka Matthews.
Hudson will be in Chicago taping the special for several days.
