American Idol star reveals she passed on hosting SNL: 'The thought of it stresses me out'

AMERICAN IDOL: Ò819 (Grand Finale)Ó - ItÕs the grand finale! The Top 3 give their final performances in a star-studded night with music legends and top stars. Then, this yearÕs ÒAmerican IdolÓ winner is revealed live. SUNDAY, MAY 18 (8:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) on ABC. (Disney/Christopher Willard)
RYAN SEACREST, JOHN FOSTER, JAMAL ROBERTS
AMERICAN IDOL: Ò819 (Grand Finale)Ó - ItÕs the grand finale! The Top 3 give their final performances in a star-studded night with music legends and top stars. Then, this yearÕs ÒAmerican IdolÓ winner is revealed live. SUNDAY, MAY 18 (8:00-11:00 p.m. EDT) on ABC. (Disney/Christopher Willard) RYAN SEACREST, JOHN FOSTER, JAMAL ROBERTS

It really feels like Jennifer Hudson can do it all. Being the youngest woman to win an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony, aka reaching EGOT status, she's just amazing! Her journey first started out on American Idol season 3 back in 2004. Though she didn't win that season and actually came in seventh place, she's one of the most well-known contestants in the series' history.

She's done so much and showcased her talent in different ways. From music to acting and now host of her own talk show, it seems like there's nothing she can't do. But, that may not be completely true! It turns out that live sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live actually offered Hudson the chance to host.

Jennifer Hudson
"The Jennifer Hudson Show" Season 3, Episode 3044 | Warner Bros. TV/GettyImages

Jennifer Hudson had the chance to host SNL

There's been so many celebs to take on that role for a night over the years, and it's definitely a big deal. However, the thought of it brought fear right to the forefront for the artist. Both Eddie Murphy and Keke Palmer have had the chance to host, with the former also a cast member on the series. When the two visited Hudson on The Jennifer Hudson Show, SNL was brought up. Here's what she had to say, per EW:

"They wanted me to host right after Dreamgirls. But y'all, if you didn't know, public speaking was my biggest fear. I was like, no. I turned it down. But now that you mention it, now, I might feel more prepared. But the thought of it stresses me out."

We definitely can't blame this EGOT for being nervous! The live aspect of Saturday Night Live can be intimidating for many people. And even though she has her own talk show now, it isn't live. It's recorded. And yes, Hudson has also done theatre which is live. Though another element with SNL that may be making her nervous is the fact that the scripts could change even the day of. At least when performing live, whether singing or acting, you know things aren't going to change last minute and you have more time to prepare.

Though it does sound like Hudson is open to considering being a host. I honestly would love to see that! I think she's be great at it. Her stress about it is definitely very reasonable and valid. Let's hope that both Murphy and Palmer's comments have encouraged her to go ahead and try it. Because as Murphy told her, she could be the musical guest too! As we've said this whole time, the American Idol alum is such a talent and she could showcase it all in a new way on SNL if she chooses. She has our full support!

Saturday Night Live season 51 most likely premieres this fall 2025 on NBC.