Jennifer Hudson to Star in NBC’s ‘Hairspray Live!’

By Sameer Rao Apr 27, 2016

Following the success of last December’s "The Wiz Live!," NBC will air its fourth live musical this winter—and Jennifer Hudson confirmed she has a lead role.

The Academy and Golden Globe Award-winning actress and singer will portray "Motormouth Mable" in "Hairspray Live!" Hudson, who currently stars in the Broadway revival of "The Color Purple," tweeted about it on Monday (April 25):

Hudson will perform alongside Harvey Fierstein, who will reprise his Tony Award-winning portrayal of "Edna Turnbald."

"Hairspray" is set in early 1960s Baltimore and depicts a White youth’s coming of age in a time marked by tense race relations and the rise of R&B. Hudson’s character, a Black television show host and record store owner, was potrayed by Queen Latifah in the 2007 film version. 

"Hairspray Live!" will air on NBC on December 7. 

(H/t NBC News)