Two decades ago, Jennifer Hudson’s future seemed uncertain when she found herself in the bottom three of “American Idol” Season 3. Her shocking elimination in seventh place left fans stunned, but Hudson never let that moment define her. Reflecting on that experience, she says, “I feel like everything happens [for a reason], and I wouldn’t change any of it.” Her faith and perseverance carried her through, leading to an extraordinary career that has made her a global superstar.

Now, at 43, the multi-talented EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) winner is returning to her gospel roots with a new Christmas album, “The Gift of Love.” The album marks her first release in ten years, and it’s filled with personal significance and holiday joy. Hudson, a self-proclaimed “holiday fanatic,” says, “It’s been a dream of mine my whole career. I’m a holiday fanatic … so it just makes sense.”

The album’s heartfelt tracks include both holiday classics and new originals, each infused with Hudson’s signature powerhouse vocals. Songs like “Go Tell It on the Mountain” honor her gospel upbringing and are a tribute to the church services of her childhood. “Growing up in the church, we used to march in with the candles,” she recalls. “My gospel roots needed to be a part of the album.” Starting the collection with a soulful rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” she aims to bring listeners together. “Some may not look at it as a holiday song, but … I just think it unifies everyone.”

Even as her career has flourished in many directions, from acting in “Dreamgirls” to hosting “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” music has always been at the core of her journey. “I feel like it hasn’t been [a decade] because I sing through everything I do,” Hudson explains. “Through films, commercials, different things, I have never stopped singing.” The busy singer-actress began recording “The Gift of Love” last summer and even found inspiration while bike riding on the beach, listening to holiday tunes.

Beyond her musical career, Hudson has also found a “beautiful” new chapter in her personal life with rapper and actor Common. The two bonded over their shared Chicago roots while working together on the film “Breathe.” Hudson describes their connection as something that feels “familiar” and “like home,” attributing their shared energy to their upbringing in Chicago. “It is very beautiful — it really is,” Hudson gushes. “It hit differently. There’s nothing like it, that’s for sure.”

Their relationship has captured fans’ attention, especially as Common hinted at the possibility of marriage on “The Breakfast Club” radio show. “If I’m going to get married, it’s to her,” he said. Hudson, responding with a giggle, acknowledges the depth of his words. “He keeps saying that. That is a very strong statement.”

The couple’s chemistry even extends into their musical collaboration, as Common lends his talents to the original song “Almost Christmas” on Hudson’s album. Inspired by a spontaneous phone conversation in which they freestyled holiday rhymes, their playful creativity has brought a fresh and festive twist to traditional songs like “Jingle Bells.”

Hudson is eager to share “The Gift of Love” with her fans, embarking on a holiday tour that kicks off on November 24 in Brooklyn. Promising a warm and intimate experience, she says, “It’s going to feel very festive, very family-oriented and very personal.” As she reflects on her journey, Hudson expresses deep gratitude for her enduring support from fans. “I can’t believe it’s been 20 years. That blows my mind when I look back. This album is a gift of love to all of those who have been with me.”