Jennifer Hudson Gets Revenge

She was an “American Idol” and a “Dreamgirl.” Now, Jennifer Hudson is officially a Hollywood golden girl.

Jen first got a taste of the limelight as a finalist on “Idol,” but she never dreamed she'd be up for a Golden Globe.

“It still hasn't sunk in that I got the part in the movie,” Hudson admitted.

“Extra” has been with Jennifer since the beginning of her Hollywood dream. From our first interview with the fresh-faced girl from Chicago, we knew she was going places… even if Judge Simon Cowell wasn't her biggest fan.

“You look like you should be something you should wrap a turkey in,” Simon said of Hudson while on “Idol.” “I think you're out of your depth in this competition.”

At the time, Jennifer told us, “Simon, I can't imagine him getting any rougher than he is.”

But today, America's favorite new music and movie “Idol” sent a shout out to Mr. Mean.

“I'm a Golden Globe nominee,” she screamed. “Did you hear me? I hope you're proud! Simon, I'm going to tell you again: I am a Golden Globe nominee!”

On Thursday, Simon admitted that he's proud of the breakthrough star, issuing this statement to “Extra”: “I am thrilled for Jennifer. This is what I love about America: dreams really can come true. Now for the Oscar.”

There is no doubt Jen has come a log way from working at a local Burger King and singing on Disney cruises.

“When I think back to working on a cruise ship, what were the odds?” Hudson recalled. “I mean, it could have been anybody.”