Jennifer Hudson’s son freezes on R&B question in “Family Feud” [VIDEO]

Jennifer Hudson Reacts as Son Blanks on Iconic R&B Girl Group

Jennifer Hudson’s son, David Daniel Otunga Jr., found himself in the spotlight for an unexpected reason during a recent episode of Celebrity Family Feud, which aired yesterday (July 10, 2025). The 15-year-old struggled to name an R&B girl group when faced with the game show’s fast-paced challenge, sparking a mix of amusement and surprise among viewers. The EGOT winner and talk show host, known for her powerhouse vocals and resilient spirit, teamed up with her son and family members to compete against Taraji P. Henson’s crew, playing for The Jennifer Hudson Foundation. The moment, which aired as part of the season premiere, has since ignited online chatter, blending Hudson’s celebrity status with a relatable parenting twist.

The episode showcased Hudson as team captain, introducing David Jr.—nicknamed “DOJ”—alongside nephew Marion, cousin Kelvin, and cousin Razia. The question posed by host Steve Harvey asked for popular R&B girl groups, based on a survey of 100 people. While answers like The Supremes and En Vogue topped the board, David Jr.’s hesitation and eventual blank drew laughs from the audience and a playful reaction from Hudson. Posts found on X highlight the viral moment, with fans noting the teen’s struggle alongside Hudson’s shocked expression, adding a humanizing layer to her larger-than-life persona.

The Family Feud Moment

The Celebrity Family Feud segment pitted Hudson’s family against Henson’s, with both teams vying for a $25,000 charity prize. Hudson, radiant in her role as captain, rallied her crew with confidence, but the R&B girl group question threw David Jr. off balance. As the clock ticked, he fumbled, unable to recall a group, leading to a comedic exchange with Harvey. Hudson’s reaction—wide-eyed and mouthing disbelief—became an instant highlight, resonating with viewers who’ve watched the show for its unpredictable celebrity moments.

The survey results revealed a mix of expected and surprising answers, with The Supremes leading at number one, followed by En Vogue, Destiny’s Child, TLC, and an unexpected inclusion of Salt-N-Pepa. The mention of Spice Girls as an R&B group baffled Hudson and Henson alike, prompting laughter and a quip from Harvey about the survey’s quirks. David Jr.’s struggle stood out, especially given his mother’s deep roots in R&B music, from her Grammy-winning debut album to hits like “Spotlight.” Fans took to social media, with some joking that the teen’s musical tastes lean more toward hip-hop or pop, while others defended him, noting the pressure of live TV at 15.

Hudson’s Legacy and David Jr.’s Background

Jennifer Hudson’s journey to stardom began on American Idol in 2004, where she finished seventh but launched a career that earned her an Oscar for Dreamgirls, a Grammy for her self-titled album, and eventual EGOT status in 2022. Her R&B credentials are impeccable, with collaborations alongside Ne-Yo, Timbaland, and R. Kelly shaping her sound. This musical heritage made David Jr.’s stumble all the more striking, though it also humanized the family dynamic fans rarely see.

David Daniel Otunga Jr., born August 10, 2009, is Hudson’s only child with ex-fiancé David Otunga, a former WWE wrestler and Harvard Law graduate. Otunga, Sr. rose to fame on Tiffany Pollard’s “I Love New York 2,” nicknamed “Punk.” After that, he got involved with Jennifer Hudson, and had David, Jr.

Raised largely out of the public eye, David Jr. has made rare appearances, from red carpet events like the 2015 Kids’ Choice Awards to dancing alongside his mom in Instagram clips showcasing his Michael Jackson-inspired moves. Hudson has often credited him with saving her life after the 2008 murders of her mother, brother, and nephew, a tragedy that tested her resilience. His Family Feud moment, while lighthearted, contrasts with this heavy backstory, offering a glimpse of normalcy.

The Reaction That Broke The Internet

The internet erupted following the episode’s airing. Posts found on X captured the sentiment, with users laughing at David Jr.’s blank stare and Hudson’s dramatic reaction, while others praised the family’s chemistry. Some speculated about the survey’s oddities—Spice Girls as R&B?—while others empathized, noting that a 15-year-old might not connect with classic R&B groups. The moment trended alongside discussions of Hudson’s foundation, which supports arts education and community programs, adding a charitable angle to the buzz.

Hudson’s response during the show was pure entertainment, blending mock frustration with maternal pride. She later hugged David Jr., turning the mishap into a teaching moment, a scene that endeared her further to fans. The episode’s replay value soared, with clips circulating widely, boosting Celebrity Family Feud’s ratings and Hudson’s visibility. This incident mirrors past celebrity gaffes on the show, like T.I.’s son struggling to spell, yet it stands out due to Hudson’s musical legacy.

Cultural Context and R&B Girl Groups

The question’s focus on R&B girl groups taps into a rich cultural vein. The Supremes, led by Diana Ross, defined Motown in the 1960s, while En Vogue brought ‘90s harmony with hits like “My Lovin’ (You’re Never Gonna Get It).” Destiny’s Child, featuring Beyoncé, and TLC, with T-Boz and Chilli, dominated the late ‘90s and early 2000s, shaping modern R&B. Salt-N-Pepa, though primarily a rap duo, crossed genres, and Spice Girls’ inclusion as R&B sparked debate, given their pop roots with occasional R&B influences like “Holler.”

David Jr.’s struggle might reflect a generational shift, where streaming algorithms prioritize newer genres over classic R&B. Hudson, however, grew up immersed in the genre, singing in her Chicago church choir before breaking into the industry. This contrast highlights a parenting challenge—passing down musical heritage—which she addressed with humor on the show. The moment also sparked discussions about diversity in music education, with some suggesting Hudson might host a family jam session to school David Jr. on the classics.

Family Dynamics and Hudson’s Resilience

Hudson’s participation in Family Feud with David Jr. and relatives underscores her commitment to family, a theme she’s emphasized since the 2008 tragedy. The murders, committed by her sister Julia’s estranged husband William Balfour, left Hudson to rebuild with her son as her anchor. She told Glamour in 2015, “I tell David all the time, ‘You saved my life,’” a sentiment echoed in her foundation’s mission. Bringing David Jr. onto the show, despite his R&B flub, reflects this bond, blending fun with purpose.

The team’s performance—facing off against Henson’s family, who also stumbled—highlighted a competitive yet supportive vibe. Hudson’s cousins and nephew added energy, but David Jr.’s moment stole the spotlight. His growth from a toddler dancing to MJ to a teen on national TV mirrors Hudson’s evolution from Idol contestant to talk show host, a journey marked by triumphs and trials. This episode adds a lighthearted chapter to that narrative.