Jennifer Hudson is engaged to David Otunga

Jennifer Hudson has opened up about her relationship with her late mum.

Darnell Donerson, 57, was shot dead in Chicago in October 2008, along with the star's brother Jason, 29, and nephew Julian King, 7.

‘I was always a mama's baby,’ she says. ‘I'd go and sleep in her bed until I was 15 years old.’

Jennifer's fiancé David Otunga has been her rock following the tragedy.

‘In this time when things seem so uncertain for her, there is certainty in our bond,’ David tells Essence.

‘She doesn't have to worry about losing me. I'm always going to be right here.’

Alison Adey