Jennifer Hudson and Common, two of Hollywood’s most beloved stars, enjoyed a fun and slightly eventful date night at Madison Square Garden in New York City, where they watched the New York Knicks take on the Golden State Warriors. As the couple sat courtside, they were caught up in the excitement of the game, but things took an unexpected turn during the second quarter when Knicks player Miles McBride attempted a steal near the sidelines where Hudson and Common were seated. The 24-year-old point guard accidentally knocked the ball into Hudson’s face, causing her to remove her glasses to check for damage. McBride then collided with the 43-year-old singer, prompting a concerned reaction from the sports commentators, who jokingly called for her protection. Despite the minor mishap, the couple seemed to take it in stride and continued enjoying their evening out.
Hudson, who rose to fame as a contestant on American Idol and later became an EGOT winner (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony winner), looked effortlessly chic in a casual outfit consisting of blue jeans, a white shirt, a black trench coat, and white-and-black sneakers. Her boyfriend, Common, 52, a renowned actor and rapper known for films like Just Wright and Chi, sported a stylish blue-and-white tracksuit paired with white sneakers. The couple’s relaxed yet polished attire reflected their ability to balance glamour with downtime, making them a picture-perfect pair at the high-profile event.
The romance between Hudson and Common has been a subject of interest since rumors first surfaced in February 2022, when they were spotted together in Philadelphia and Chicago, their mutual hometown. At the time, neither confirmed the relationship, but their chemistry was undeniable. It wasn’t until November of that year that Hudson officially revealed they were dating during an interview with Gayle King on CBS Mornings. When asked about her relationship status, Hudson described it as “more sophisticated than boo’ed up,” her playful way of suggesting that the connection was deeper and more mature than casual dating. Common has also been vocal about his happiness with Hudson, publicly gushing about her intelligence, talent, and down-to-earth nature.
In January 2024, Common appeared as a guest on Hudson’s self-titled talk show, The Jennifer Hudson Show, where she playfully interrogated him about their relationship. “I’m in a relationship with one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever met,” he shared, highlighting her many qualities, including her faith, her talent, and her ability to stay grounded despite her fame. He even joked that he had set high standards for a partner, mentioning that she had to be an EGOT winner and have her own talk show—both of which Hudson had achieved. The exchange showcased the lighthearted and supportive dynamic between the two stars, as well as the admiration they have for each other’s accomplishments.
Both Hudson and Common bring unique perspectives and experiences to their relationship. Hudson, who shares a 15-year-old son, David Daniel Otunga Jr., with her ex-fiancé, David Otunga, has been open about her journey as a single mother and her focus on creating a stable home for her child. Common, who has been linked to several high-profile celebrities in the past, including Serena Williams, Tiffany Haddish, and Taraji P. Henson, has long been vocal about his desire for a meaningful and lasting partnership. Together, they seem to embody a sense of balance and mutual respect, qualities that have been highlighted in their public appearances and interviews.
The incident at the Knicks game, while humorous and unexpected, also served as a reminder of the couple’s ability to navigate life’s unpredictability with grace and humor. Despite the brief commotion, they appeared to thoroughly enjoy their evening, laughing and cheering as they took in the game. Their relationship, which has been growing stronger since 2022, continues to captivate fans and media alike, not just for their individual star power but for the genuine connection they share. As they continue to navigate the ups and downs of life and love, Jennifer Hudson and Common remain one of Hollywood’s most inspiring and endearing celebrity couples.
