%20--%3e%3csvg%20width='512'%20height='512'%20viewBox='0%200%20135.46666%20135.46667'%20version='1.1'%20id='svg185'%20sodipodi:docname='wserie.svg'%20inkscape:version='1.2.2%20(b0a8486541,%202022-12-01)'%20inkscape:export-filename='../../public/wserie.png'%20inkscape:export-xdpi='96'%20inkscape:export-ydpi='96'%20xmlns:inkscape='http://www.inkscape.org/namespaces/inkscape'%20xmlns:sodipodi='http://sodipodi.sourceforge.net/DTD/sodipodi-0.dtd'%20xmlns:xlink='http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink'%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20xmlns:svg='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%3e%3csodipodi:namedview%20id='namedview187'%20pagecolor='%23ffffff'%20bordercolor='%23666666'%20borderopacity='1.0'%20inkscape:showpageshadow='2'%20inkscape:pageopacity='0.0'%20inkscape:pagecheckerboard='0'%20inkscape:deskcolor='%23d1d1d1'%20inkscape:document-units='mm'%20showgrid='false'%20inkscape:zoom='0.75187991'%20inkscape:cx='-219.44994'%20inkscape:cy='212.79994'%20inkscape:window-width='1920'%20inkscape:window-height='1029'%20inkscape:window-x='0'%20inkscape:window-y='27'%20inkscape:window-maximized='1'%20inkscape:current-layer='layer1'%20/%3e%3cdefs%20id='defs182'%3e%3cradialGradient%20inkscape:collect='always'%20xlink:href='%23linearGradient1249'%20id='radialGradient1251'%20cx='254'%20cy='95.249992'%20fx='254'%20fy='95.249992'%20r='67.65345'%20gradientUnits='userSpaceOnUse'%20/%3e%3clinearGradient%20inkscape:collect='always'%20id='linearGradient1249'%3e%3cstop%20style='stop-color:%2334b86b;stop-opacity:1;'%20offset='0'%20id='stop1245'%20/%3e%3cstop%20style='stop-color:%23206f43;stop-opacity:1;'%20offset='1'%20id='stop1247'%20/%3e%3c/linearGradient%3e%3clinearGradient%20inkscape:collect='always'%20xlink:href='%23linearGradient1271'%20id='linearGradient1273'%20x1='225.37227'%20y1='95.249992'%20x2='297.42328'%20y2='95.249992'%20gradientUnits='userSpaceOnUse'%20/%3e%3clinearGradient%20inkscape:collect='always'%20id='linearGradient1271'%3e%3cstop%20style='stop-color:%23ffffff;stop-opacity:1;'%20offset='0'%20id='stop1267'%20/%3e%3cstop%20style='stop-color:%23adadad;stop-opacity:1;'%20offset='1'%20id='stop1269'%20/%3e%3c/linearGradient%3e%3c/defs%3e%3cg%20inkscape:label='Layer%201'%20inkscape:groupmode='layer'%20id='layer1'%3e%3cg%20id='g1293'%20transform='translate(-186.26667,-27.516659)'%3e%3ccircle%20style='fill:url(%23radialGradient1251);fill-opacity:1;stroke:none;stroke-width:0.159763px;paint-order:fill%20markers%20stroke;stop-color:%23000000'%20id='path358'%20cx='254'%20cy='95.249992'%20r='67.65345'%20/%3e%3cpath%20id='path1748'%20style='fill:url(%23linearGradient1273);fill-opacity:1;stroke:none;stroke-width:0.127407px;paint-order:fill%20markers%20stroke;stop-color:%23000000'%20inkscape:transform-center-x='-12.008464'%20d='m%20225.37227,45.1744%20v%2032.19152%202.85227%20l%2031.87352,15.0318%20-31.87352,15.03181%20v%202.85226%2032.19153%20l%2072.05101,-33.97984%20-34.12905,-16.09576%2034.12905,-16.09576%20z'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=small}
Rita Moreno, Val & Maks Chmerkovskiy, Scott Hamilton
The Jennifer Hudson Show - S2 - E132
As part of our Legend Series, the iconic Rita Moreno joins Jennifer to talk about her film “The Prank.” Dance superstars and brothers Val and Maks Chmerkovskiy visit. Olympic gold medalist Scott Hamilton discusses the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation (ScottCares.org), which funds innovative cancer research.
The Jennifer Hudson Show: Season 2 - 62 Episode s
2x82 - Monica, Black Pumas
February 8, 2024
Grammy-winning R&B singer Monica stops by! Black Pumas will perform their latest single "Ice Cream (Pay Phone)" from their album "Chronicles of a Diamond." Jennifer welcomes 4-year-old preschool student Summer and her parents Marvin and Janyl, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Summer is an aspiring surgeon and loves talking about bones, surgical procedures, and anything related to the medical field. She is known online for her dinnertime conversations with her dad, Dr. Marvin Smith (an orthopedic surgeon), where she asks him about the surgeries he performed that day.
2x83 - The Big Game, Babyface
February 9, 2024
Jennifer Hudson gets ready for the Big Game! Musical artist Babyface promotes his album “Girls Night Out.”
2x84 - Donald Faison, Bobby Berk
February 12, 2024
Donald Faison promtoes his comedy series “Extended Family.” Bobby Berk discusses the new season of “Queer Eye” and his Tri Pointe Homes partnership.
2x85 - Sarah Silverman
February 13, 2024
Sarah Silverman promotes “Stupid Pet Tricks.” Basketball coach “Lethal Shooter” Chris Matthews preps Jennifer for the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game. Jennifer welcomes Amber Kemp-Gerstel from Miami, Florida, who is a child psychologist turned full-time crafter. She says her “doable-DIY” approach takes away the complication, intimidation, and frustration of crafting and gives you all the info you need to jump headfirst into the DIY life. Amber will do a Valentine’s Day-themed crafting demo.
2x86 - Coco Jones
February 14, 2024
Coco Jones stops by the show for a special Valentine's Day Celebration. Astrologer Jennifer Freed, author of the book “A Map to Your Soul,” offers a Valentine’s Day astrology demo.
2x87 - Gina Torres, Lil Mike
February 15, 2024
Gina Torres promotes her show “9-1-1: Lone Star.” Jennifer welcomes back 5-year-old Lil Mike and his dad, Mike Jones, from Williamsburg, Virginia, who first appeared earlier in the season. Lil Mike showed off his basketball skills and was surprised by Shaq and received tickets to his first NBA game. Since then, he has started learning new skills, and Mike says people still recognize him from being on the show. Lil Mike will help prepare Jennifer to play in the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game.
2x88 - Billy Gardell
February 16, 2024
Billy Gardell discusses his comedy series “Bob Hearts Abishola.” Jennifer welcomes Shay Jefferson from Belton, Missouri, who is the founder and Executive Director of Family Resource Center. The nonprofit provides support and resources for families in Missouri and has 12 centers across the state that provide essentials ranging from baby supplies, food, clothes, etc. all free of charge. Shay says fundraising for her nonprofit is a constant struggle and in order to keep the 12 locations open, she doesn’t take a salary.
2x89 - will.i.am, Brian & Mika Kleinschmidt
February 19, 2024
will.i.am discusses his two AI-powered entertainment initiatives, FYI.Ai and Sound Drive. Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt from "100 Day Dream Home" kick off HGTV Week!
2x90 - Erin & Ben Napier, Page Turner, Brandy Clark
February 20, 2024
HGTV Week continues with Erin & Ben Napier (HGTV's "Home Town"). Page Turner (HGTV's "Rock the Block") stops by. Brandy Clark discusses her self-titled album. Jennifer welcomes Baileigh Sinaman-Daniel from Swannanoa, NC, who recently made headlines as a one-armed D3 college basketball player at Warren Wilson College. Baileigh was born with a birth defect that caused her right arm to not fully develop. She started playing basketball in her freshman year of high school and was unexpectedly cut from the team during her senior year. She was determined to continue her basketball career and made her college team. Baileigh hopes to inspire others and show them that anything is possible.
2x91 - Egypt Sherrod & Mike Jackson, Sanaa Lathan
February 21, 2024
HGTV Week continues with Egypt Sherrod & Mike Jackson from HGTV's "Married to Real Estate." Sanaa Lathan promotes her new Audible series "The Justice."
2x92 - Cole & Chelsea DeBoer, Kane Brown
February 22, 2024
HGTV Week continues with Cole & Chelsea DeBoer (HGTV's "Down Home Fab." Kane Brown promotes his In The Air tour and his new single, "I Can Feel It."
2x93 - Drew & Jonathan Scott, Dave & Jenny Marrs, Lil Jon
February 23, 2024
HGTV Week continues with Drew & Jonathan Scott (HGTV's "Celebrity IOU"). Dave & Jenny Marrs (HGTV's "Fixer to Fabulous" and "Fixer to Fabulous: Italiano") stop by. Lil Jon discusses his HGTV series "Lil Jon Wants to Do What?" Jennifer welcomes Dr. Theresa Price from Walnut, CA, the Founder and CEO of the National College Resources Foundation and the Black College Expo. The organization's mission is to reduce high school dropout rate and increase enrollment to degree and/or certificate programs among students in underserved and underrepresented communities. For 25 years, Dr. Price has helped over 600,000 students of color get into college and has helped secure over billion in scholarships.
2x94 - Derek Hough
February 26, 2024
Derek Hough stops by to talk about the “Symphony of Dance” tour. Jennifer welcomes Route 1 founder Marcus Carpenter from Minneapolis, Minnesota, whose organization increases food access and decreases the racial hunger divide by empowering, encouraging, and educating BIPOC farmers. Jennifer is also joined by 11-year-old kid scientist Linda Pistun from Gainesville, Virginia, who founded Linda’s Lab, a nonprofit focused on ending world hunger and improving science education in schools. To combat hunger, Linda created a chocolate bar using mealworm protein that she is working to make shelf stable. To help improve science education, she wrote a book called “Linda and the Mysterious Footprints” about girl who uses science to help fix the carbon footprint in her town. She will chat with Jennifer and perform a science demo.
2x95 - Karen Pittman
February 27, 2024
Karen Pittman comes by to discuss her Apple TV+ series “The Morning Show.” Jennifer then welcomes teen archers Caelan and Milla Shanklin — the Shanklin Twins — from Castle Rock, Colorado, who both hold state championship titles and records in their state. Jennifer welcomes viral couple Rita Smith and Theodore Smith Sr. from New Orleans, Louisiana, who have gained popularity through Rita’s videos, which offer a glimpse inside their love life. The Louisiana native, who has been married to Theodore for four decades, has become a voice of wisdom with her advice on intimacy tips, valuing partnership, fun date nights, and the importance of feminine necessities, including perfume and lingerie. Jennifer welcomes Housing Resources Inc. Board of Directors Vice President Lawanda Chambers from Milwaukee, WI. The nonprofit organization helps individuals and families purchase their own homes. Lawanda who the organization once helped will chat with Jennifer.
2x96 - Shemar Moore
February 28, 2024
“S.W.A.T.” star Shemar Moore joins Jennifer in the studio. Jennifer then welcomes teen archers Caelan and Milla Shanklin — the Shanklin Twins — from Castle Rock, Colorado, who both hold state championship titles and records in their state. Caelan is also a national champion and aspires to compete in the 2028 Olympics. They love teaching archery and say it’s a sport anyone can become good at, no matter their body type. They will chat with Jennifer and perform a demo.
2x97 - Magic Johnson, Nicole Avant
February 29, 2024
The legendary Magic Johnson stops by to chat with Jennifer. Nicole Avant, author of the memoir “Think You’ll Be Happy: Moving Through Grief with Grit, Grace and Gratitude,” joins Jennifer to chat about her book.
2x98 - La La Anthony, Nichelle Lewis
March 1, 2024
La La Anthony of Starz’s “BMF” joins Jennifer in the studio. Plus, Jennifer interviews Nichelle Lewis, who will perform “Home” from the original Broadway musical “The Wiz.”
2x99 - Tichina Arnold
March 4, 2024
Tichina Arnold from “The Neighborhood” drops by. Jennifer welcomes back David Riherd, the co-founder of Wildlife Learning Center (WLC), a zoological park in Sylmar, California, with baby animals, including baby bunnies and a baby giraffe! WLC cares for more than 100 displaced, rescued, and zoo-born wild animals. Jennifer welcomes 72-year-old drummer Dorothea Taylor from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Dorothea started playing drums when she was little and has captivated people across the world with her talent. Her grandson helped her start a TikTok during the pandemic, and since has amassed over 1.5 million followers. She will chat with Jennifer and perform.
2x100 - Ziggy Marley
March 5, 2024
Ziggy Marley discusses the documentary “Bob Marley: One Love.” Pet trainer Brandon McMillan from “Lucky Dog Reunions” brings his furry friends to the show.
2x101 - Jon Cryer & Abigail Spencer
March 6, 2024
Jon Cryer and Abigail Spencer promote “Extended Family.” Jennifer welcomes viral professional figure skaters Mariyah Gerber and Peter Gerber from Phoenix, Arizona, who met while performing for Disney on Ice in 2015. When the pandemic hit, they decided to do their routines at home and share the videos online, which have garnered millions of views. Jennifer welcomes Robyn Roberts from Las Vegas, Nevada, who has made headlines for graduating from college at age 63 while working as a truck driver and driving across the country. Most of her studies and schoolwork were done from inside the bed of her semi-truck. Obtaining her bachelor’s degree was a big accomplishment for Robyn, as she once struggled with addiction and homelessness and never thought it was possible. She plans to attend law school next year and hopes to inspire others.
2x102 - Daniel Dae Kim
March 7, 2024
Daniel Dae Kim promotes his Netflix series “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” Jennifer welcomes Melissa Carnegie from Charlotte, North Carolina, who created Kicks & Fros, a digital lifestyle brand and community that celebrates sneaker culture and Black and Brown women in the space. Melissa says women of color are often overlooked and undervalued in the sneaker world, even though they bring so much to the culture. Through Kicks & Fros, Melissa aims to address the underrepresentation of women in the sneaker world.
2x103 - Offset, Wolfgang Puck
March 8, 2024
Offset visits to chat about his “Set It Off” tour. Jennifer welcomes Daughter Sister Stepper Dancer (DSSD) step coach LaTodda Wallace from Atlanta, Georgia, whose youth program serves ages 4 through college. LaTodda grew up in foster care and says her middle school step coaches saved her life. In 2016, she opened DSSD to provide support and mentorship to girls in her community. Today, LaTodda has helped over 3,000 female youth and their families, and her team has won numerous state and national awards. Jennifer will chat with LaTodda before she is joined by her 7-year-old daughter, Nyala, and two 16-year-olds from the team, Ravyn and Ondreja, who will showcase a few step moves. Governors Ball chef Wolfgang Puck gives an Oscars demo.
2x104 - James Pickens Jr.
March 11, 2024
James Pickens Jr. will discuss “Grey's Anatomy.” Jennifer welcomes Curls on the Block founder Analise Harris from West Covina, CA. As a Black educator in her Colorado school, Analise says she noticed Black students would gravitate toward her and witnessed girls being teased for their natural hair. She created the organization to build a bridge between STEAM and beauty for girls with curly hair. The students in the program learn how to take care of their natural hair while also implementing science and math skills. Jennifer welcomes Olympian Arianna Choi from Orlando, FL, who is the number one rated nine-year-old fencer in the USA and has won fencing competitions coast to coast. She won her first tournament within one week of learning to fence and never looked back. Winning six Gold Medals in her first year of fencing, she added another 16 tournament wins at the end of her second year. She will teach Jennifer how to fence.
2x105 - JoJo Siwa, Allison Holker & Maksim Chmerkovskiy
March 12, 2024
“So You Think You Can Dance” judges JoJo Siwa, Allison Holker, and Maksim Chmerkovskiy stop by.
2x106 - Jesse Palmer, Shaun Robinson
March 13, 2024
Jesse Palmer will promote “The Bachelor.” Shaun Robinson will discuss TLC's “90 Day: The Single Life Tell All.” Jennifer welcomes Savaree “Sav” Hazard-Chaney from Providence, RI, who founded Tuft X PVD, a studio space where she teaches the art of tufted rugs and recently opened a brick and mortar. She currently teaches workshops and has been featured in museums and high-end hotels. Savaree will teach Jennifer how to tuft a rug.
2x107 - Minnie Driver, Jonny Moseley, 'Love Is Blind' Cast Members
March 14, 2024
Minnie Driver will discuss her new movie “Uproar.” Olympic gold medalist and freestyle skier Jonny Moseley stops by. “Love Is Blind” cast members Clay Gravesande, AD Smith, Johnny McIntyre & Amy Cortés reunite on the show.
2x108 - Boris Kodjoe, Kate Flannery
March 15, 2024
Boris Kodjoe will promote his ABC drama series “Station 19.” Jennifer welcomes viral sensation 4-year-old Christopher Bess and his dad Reginald, from Tarboro, NC, also known as “Coach Chris” for his hilarious videos helping his dad coach high school basketball. Chris became a beloved member of the local sports community and was recently named Youth Coach of the Year. Kate Flannery will discuss her new movie “The Prank” and perform a St. Patrick’s Day cooking demo.
2x109 - Joe Manganiello
March 18, 2024
Joe Manganiello promotes “Deal or No Deal Island.” Jennifer welcomes Dre’Shon Jackson from Florence, SC. Last month, a video of Dre’Shon reacting to his acceptance letter from Harvard University went viral. Dre’Shon said he is being recognized everywhere he goes and is referred to as the local “hero of hope.” Dre’Shon says he lives in a rural town that faces a lot of challenges, and he hopes to be a beacon of light and inspiration to the youth in his community. After college, Dre’Shon aspires to be an attorney and politician and hopes to one day give back to his community.
2x110 - Melissa Rauch, Joey Fatone & AJ McLean
March 19, 2024
Melissa Rauch discusses “Night Court.” Joey Fatone & AJ McLean promote their “A Legendary Night” Tour.
2x111 - Sara Bareilles, Busy Philipps, Paula Pell, & Renée Elise Goldsberry, Nathalie Emmanuel
March 20, 2024
Sara Bareilles, Busy Philipps, Paula Pell, and Renée Elise Goldsberry discuss the new season of “Girls5Eva.” Nathalie Emmanuel promotes “Arthur The King.”
2x112 - Toni Braxton & Cedric the Entertainer, Melissa Benoist, Carla Gugino, Natasha Behnam, & Christina Elmore
March 21, 2024
Toni Braxton & Cedric the Entertainer promote their Las Vegas residency “Love & Laughter.” Melissa Benoist, Carla Gugino, Natasha Behnam, and Christina Elmore discuss drama series “The Girls on The Bus.”
2x113 - Phil Keoghan, Lisa Rinna
March 22, 2024
Phil Keoghan discusses “The Amazing Race.” Lisa Rinna stops by.
2x114 - Alison Brie
March 25, 2024
Alison Brie discusses her new Peacock series “Apples Never Fall.” Jennifer welcomes 4-year-old Leila Danai and her mother, Mildred Munjanganja, from Pompano Beach, FL, who went viral for telling her mom about how she stood up to a classmate who told her he didn’t like her hairstyle. In the clip, Leila recalls the interaction: “(He said), 'I don’t like that hair — it’s crazy’. And I said, 'My mommy made it. And if you don’t like it, I’ll keep it for myself.” Mildred and Leila will chat with Jennifer about their story and about the importance of instilling self-confidence at home. Jennifer welcomes Shaniece Jones from Los Angeles, CA, who is a pro closet organizer and declutter expert known as the “closet therapist” by her clients.
2x115 - Jerrod Carmichael
March 26, 2024
Jerrod Carmichael promotes his HBO series “Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show.” Jennifer welcomes neuroscientist and popular online content creator Emily McDonald from Fort Lauderdale, FL. While studying neuroscience, Emily found it ironic that neuroscientists knew the importance of mental health, but none of them were taking care of their minds. She decided to apply neuroscience knowledge to help rewire her brain and improve her mental health. After noticing a huge difference in her mood with small changes, she began sharing the tips.
2x116 - Gina Rodriguez, Carla Hall
March 27, 2024
Gina Rodriguez discusses her ABC series “Not Dead Yet.” Carla Hall (“Chasing Flavor”) will perform a cooking demo. Jennifer welcomes Jenn Drummond from Park City, UT, a mom of seven who recently made history by becoming the first woman to climb the Seven Second Summits. After recovering from a bad car accident in 2018, Jenn was inspired to climb a mountain for her 40th birthday. She began training, and eventually decided to set a world record and climb the Seven Second Summits, which she completed last summer. Jenn’s new book, BreakProof, was released in January and she just returned from climbing Mount Kilimanjaro with three of her sons.
2x117 - Kenya Barris, Jamie Kern Lima
March 28, 2024
Kenya Barris discusses his BET+ series “Diarra From Detroit.” Jamie Kern Lima promotes her book “Worthy.”
2x118 - Jenna Dewan
March 29, 2024
Spring Celebration! Jenna Dewan promotes her ABC series “The Rookie.” Jennifer welcomes Kina Evans from Hayward, CA. Kina is a middle school special education teacher at Caesar Chavez Middle School and founder of Bully Talk Inc., a nonprofit organization that equips kids with tools and leadership skills to decrease bullying and create positive practices. Kina has been a teacher for 5 years and says she is motivated and inspired by her students daily. She calls her students her babies and constantly goes out of pocket to provide them with anything they need.
2x119 - Joel McHale
April 1, 2024
Joel McHale chats about his television show “Animal Control.”
2x120 - Bill Bellamy
April 2, 2024
Bill Bellamy promotes his upcoming comedy tour. Jennifer welcomes Tyara Lee from Upland, CA. Despite facing adversity as a foster youth in Compton, Tyara defied expectations and financed her education through four jobs. Overcoming instability, she credits her resilience to her faith and capacity for forgiveness. In 2018, Tyara founded She Is Foundation Network, a nonprofit aiding women with housing, employment, financial literacy, and empowerment, drawing from her own experiences. Jennifer welcomes Asjia O’Neal from Dallas, TX who made history in December as the #1 draft pick for America's first professional volleyball league, launched in 2024. Asjia gained fame for leading the Texas Longhorns to consecutive championship wins in 2022 & 2023. Despite overcoming two open-heart surgeries, she aims to secure a spot in the Paris Olympics. Asjia will teach Jennifer how to play volleyball on the show.
2x121 - Tarek El Moussa
April 3, 2024
Tarek El Moussa discusses his television show “Flip Your Life: How to Find Opportunities in Distress.” Jennifer welcomes Andini Makosinski, a young inventor and Gen Z financial expert. Most recently, Andini has taken on the role of on-screen host for the second season of her show 'Your World On Money.'
2x122 - Sara Gilbert
April 4, 2024
Sara Gilbert chats about her sitcom “The Conners.” Jennifer welcomes Alex George from Philadelphia, PA. Alex is a TikTok creator on a quest to make every chocolate chip cookie recipe on the internet. She is documenting her baking journey on a spreadsheet with ratings, effort, comments, and links to the recipes. Alex will teach Jennifer how to make chocolate chip cookies on the show.
2x123 - Patton Oswalt
April 5, 2024
Patton Oswalt discusses his movie “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.” Jennifer welcomes 20-month-old Zoey Cartagena and her parents Alexis and Tony from Maplewood, NJ. A video of Zoey pointing to her skin and saying “so pretty” recently went viral. As a bi-racial couple, Alexis says it is imperative to teach her daughter the importance of loving the skin she’s in. The couple gets emotional when talking about the struggles they faced expanding their family and said Zoey is their ‘miracle baby.’ Alexis and Tony said the viral video is a reminder of the importance of pouring into young girls, and the love and positivity surrounding the video means the world to them.
2x124 - Quinta Brunson, Tabitha Brown
April 8, 2024
“Abbott Elementary” creator and star Quinta Brunson stops by to kick off “Abbott Elementary” Week on “The Jennifer Hudson Show.” Author and social media personality Tabitha Brown joins us to discuss her book “I Did a Thing: 30 Days to Living Free.” Jennifer then welcomes Deanna Dixon, a single mom and full-time rideshare driver from Atlanta, Georgia. Known as the “RideShare Queen” on social media, Deanna’s viral videos, which combine carpool karaoke, cab confessions, and life talk, have amassed over 20 million views. Her goal is to make sure passengers leave feeling better than when they arrived.
2x125 - Tyler James Williams, Dorian Missick
April 9, 2024
Tyler James Williams from “Abbott Elementary” stops by. Dorian Missick stops by to talk about his new film, “Shirley,” a biopic about trailblazing politician Shirley Chisholm. Jennifer welcomes Ford McLiney from Kansas City, Missouri, a high-level athlete who has found solace in diving amid struggles with his sexuality. Encouraged by an online friendship with openly gay swimmer Ryan Dafforn, Ford now works as a recruiter and diving coach, aiming to support other athletes.
2x126 - Janelle James, William Stanford Davis
April 10, 2024
Janelle James and William Stanford Davis from “Abbott Elementary” stop by the studio. Jennifer then welcomes Bryan Ross from Beaumont, California, a P.E. teacher and coach at Ánimo Venice Charter High School. His wife, Janet, wrote to celebrate Bryan’s dedication to mentoring and coaching students in a Title 1 school. As a Watts neighborhood native, Bryan is driven by the area’s challenges to give back through education, offering life experiences to bridge the gap for underserved communities.
2x127 - Sheryl Lee Ralph, Chris Perfetti
April 11, 2024
“Abbott Elementary” stars Sheryl Lee Ralph and Chris Perfetti visit the show. Jennifer then welcomes Scripps National Spelling Bee winner Dev Shah from Largo, Florida. Next, Anthony Sanchez from Fort Worth, Texas, stops by to chat with Jennifer. Anthony was paralyzed in a motorcycle accident seven months before the birth of his daughter Mia. Anthony believes his daughter’s birth turned his life around. Dubbed “Wheelchair Papi,” he’s become a social media sensation, raising awareness for the wheelchair community, offering support, and inspiring others to thrive despite challenges.
2x128 - Lisa Ann Walter, Chef Kwame
April 12, 2024
Lisa Ann Walter from “Abbott Elementary” stops by. Chef Kwame joins Jennifer in a cooking demo. Jennifer welcomes 17-year-old Dr. Dorothy Tillman from Chicago, Illinois, who recently made headlines for earning her Ph.D. in Integrated Behavioral Health from Arizona State University. Dr. Tillman’s educational journey includes earning her associate degree at age 10, her bachelor’s degree at age 12, and her master’s degree by age 14. In 2020, she founded the DorothyJeanius STEAM Leadership Institute for Kids in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood. Despite her impressive accomplishments, she considers herself an average teenager and is currently preparing for prom.
2x129 - Nikki & Brie Garcia, Jason Tartick
April 15, 2024
Nikki and Brie Garcia from “The Nikki & Brie Show” join us in studio. “The Bachelor” alum, author, and financial expert Jason Tartick discusses his book “Talk Money to Me.”
2x130 - 'Young Sheldon' Cast
April 16, 2024
Iain Armitage, Montana Jordan, Raegan Revord, Lance Barber, Zoe Perry, Annie Potts, and Emily Osment from “Young Sheldon” stop by for a visit. Jennifer also welcomes Linda Piston, a child science prodigy from Gainesville, Virginia. At 11 years old, she likens her school life to the TV show “Young Sheldon.” Piston founded Linda’s Lab, a nonprofit focused on two goals: ending world hunger and improving science education. She was recently named the national STEM champion for her research on mealworms, showing they can digest Styrofoam and complete their life cycle.
2x131 - Sheryl Crow, Sabrina Elba
April 17, 2024
Singer Sheryl Crow chats with Jennifer about her new album, “Evolution.” Sabrina Elba from S’ABLE Labs Skincare also stops by. Jennifer then welcomes Dr. Luke Wood of Sacramento, California. Last July, he became permanent president of Sacramento State, the youngest among all the nation’s public four-year colleges and universities. Despite facing adversity, including being born while his biological mother was incarcerated, growing up in foster care, and facing housing and food insecurities, Dr. Wood graduated from college, crediting Sac State's support. Now, he aims to boost graduation rates for former foster youth, launching the Black Honors College initiative.
2x132 - Rita Moreno, Val & Maks Chmerkovskiy, Scott Hamilton
April 18, 2024
As part of our Legend Series, the iconic Rita Moreno joins Jennifer to talk about her film “The Prank.” Dance superstars and brothers Val and Maks Chmerkovskiy visit. Olympic gold medalist Scott Hamilton discusses the Scott Hamilton CARES Foundation (ScottCares.org), which funds innovative cancer research.
2x133 - Ego Nwodim
April 19, 2024
“Saturday Night Live” star Ego Nwodim stops by. Jennifer welcomes Dakota Patton, a 6-year-old makeup artist from Savannah, Georgia. Known for her remarkable talent in special effects makeup, Dakota has garnered widespread attention online. Her journey into the world of makeup began at the age of 3, and her favorite canvas is her younger sister, Dylan. Dakota is the youngest person to conduct a live demonstration at the International Make-Up Artists Trade Show. Jennifer also welcomes Kelli Ritschel Boehle from Rockford, Illinois. In 2010, Kelli’s youngest son, Nik, was diagnosed with cancer just before his 18th birthday. Nik was granted a wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation. When Nik discovered that individuals over 17 do not qualify for wishes, he was determined to change that. The night before he passed in 2012, Nik asked his mother to help, and The Nikolas Ritschel Foundation — also known as Nik’s Wish, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit — was born.
2x134 - George Lopez, Golda Rosheuvel
April 22, 2024
“Lopez vs. Lopez” star George Lopez joins Jennifer in the studio. Golda Rosheuvel, “Bridgerton’s” Queen Charlotte, stops by. Jennifer welcomes Jack Dalton of Manchester, New Hampshire. Jack, an eighth-grade student, animal activist, public speaker, author, and educational YouTuber, is known as the “Kid Conservationist” for his dedicated work in orangutan conservation. In 2022, he won the President’s Environmental Youth Award and was a Top 20 finalist for the 2020 TIME Kid of the Year. Passionate about environmental preservation, Jack advocates for treating every day as Earth Day. He aspires to inspire both children and adults to adopt a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
2x135 - Giancarlo Esposito
April 23, 2024
Giancarlo Esposito stops by to discuss his two new series, “Parish” and “The Gentlemen.”
2x136 - Elisabeth Moss
April 24, 2024
Elisabeth Moss visits the show to talk about her new spy thriller series, “The Veil.” Jennifer welcomes Ossiereen “Ms. Ojay” Jones of Lawrenceville, Georgia. Ms. Ojay reached out to share her journey as a Black small business owner. At the onset of the pandemic, she noticed a void in her community — the absence of a Christian bookstore and a secure gathering spot for locals. In response, she established Rejoice Christian Bookstore in 2021. Despite encountering challenges, Ms. Ojay finds solace in the knowledge that she’s positively impacting lives. Jennifer chats with professional grocery store taste-tester Jordan Myrick of Los Angeles, California. Jordan and her colleagues specialize in researching and taste-testing grocery store items nationwide. Their evaluations consider factors such as taste, price, and accessibility to rank products effectively. Jordan showcases some of the top-rated products she has sampled and guides Jennifer through a tasting experience.
2x137 - Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Milla Jovovich
April 25, 2024
Jesse Tyler Ferguson, host of the podcast “Dinner’s On Me with Jesse Tyler Ferguson,” stops by the studio. Milla Jovovich chats with Jennifer about co-starring together in the new action thriller movie “Breathe.” Jennifer welcomes Russ, Melody, Taysia, and Rylan Stein of Los Angeles, the founders of pi00a, an Asian-, deaf-, and CODA-owned pizza restaurant. Melody, the mom, is deaf and had trouble finding work in the culinary space. Seeing the need for change, her family opened pi00a and only employ deaf workers. Their business aims to shift perceptions about deaf employees and facilitate greater job opportunities for them in the culinary field.
2x138 - Zendaya
April 26, 2024
Zendaya drops by to chat about playing a tennis coach in her new feature film, “Challengers.” Jennifer welcomes Angelica May and Imeek Watkins from Wilmington, North Carolina, who recently gained attention following a viral video capturing Imeek’s proposal to Angelica after she completed her final cancer treatment surrounded by family, friends, and their community. High school sweethearts, Angelica and Imeek recently celebrated their 10-year anniversary. Although Angelica’s diagnosis of stage 2 triple-negative breast cancer last year was a difficult journey, the couple is now celebrating Angelica being cancer-free.
2x139 - Mike Epps
April 29, 2024
Mike Epps from “The Upshaws” stops by. Jennifer then welcomes Jonna Mendez of Reston, Virginia, a former CIA chief of disguise often likened to “Q” from the James Bond novels. Jonna served in the CIA from 1966 to 1993, mastering clandestine photography and disguises in some of the world’s most perilous cities and earning the CIA’s Intelligence Commendation Medal. Her memoir, “In True Face,” released this month, recounts her career as a female operations officer in the CIA. Jonna is now an author, lecturer, and consultant on intelligence matters.
2x140 - 'Grey’s Anatomy' Stars
April 30, 2024
“Grey’s Anatomy” stars Kim Raver, Caterina Scorsone, and Camilla Luddington visit the show. Next, siblings Biko, Manna, and Mfundo Nhlangothi from the viral musical group Biko’s Manna stop by. Jennifer then welcomes Joy Lindsay from Gary, Indiana. Joy is the founder and CEO of Butterfly Dreamz, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on mentoring girls from underserved communities to become leaders and achieve their goals. Established in 2012 after her sister Kimberly died from gun violence, the organization honors Kimberly’s life and belief in the potential of women and girls. Many Butterfly Dreamz mentees go on to be first-generation college graduates and community leaders. Joy is currently pursuing her master’s degree at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
2x141 - Cher
May 1, 2024
Jennifer interviews Grammy Award-winning icon Cher! Next, Jennifer welcomes the Snelson family from McKinney, Texas. Ashley and her husband Theron are huge fans of Jennifer’s and wrote to the show hoping to win a fun vacation for their family. Together since eighth grade, the couple has five children: Kenedi, Tre, Chase, Creed, and Zoe. Five years ago, they opened a “microschool” and a nonprofit to help kids and families in their community. They love to spend time together as a family and go above and beyond giving back.
2x142 - Reba McEntire
May 2, 2024
Country music legend and “The Voice” coach Reba McEntire is in the house! Ray and Eilyn Jimenez from HGTV’s “Divided by Design” also join Jennifer in the studio. Next, Jennifer welcomes Vincent Palmer from Dayton, Ohio, a 3-year-old presidential expert who can recite the names and order of service of each U.S. president. His fascination began with a president-themed book he received as a birthday gift, which quickly became his prized possession. Vincent is also an avid sports fan, cheering for the Cincinnati Reds and the University of Dayton Flyers basketball team. Vincent dreams of either becoming the president or a sports announcer for the Flyers. Jennifer also welcomes Dr. Mahalia Hines, who is promoting her new book, “Tomorrow’s Children: How to Raise Children to Stay Human in a High-Tech Society.”
2x143 - Hannah Waddingham
May 3, 2024
Hannah Waddingham stops by to chat about “The Fall Guy” and “The Garfield Movie.” Jennifer then welcomes Kay Cox of Houston, Texas, a kid golfer who recently went viral for hitting her first hole-in-one — a feat with odds of 1 in 12,500 for adults. She took up golf in 2020 after being inspired by an LPGA Tour commercial and has quickly risen to prominence in the sport. Kay was even among 12 girls invited to the U.S. Women’s Open. Jennifer also chats with Larry Farrish Jr. of Louisville, Kentucky, a school bus driver who loves his job. He currently serves nine public schools and says the students are like his children. Last month, a story of Larry buying PJs for a student who didn’t have them for Pajama Day went viral. Larry regularly goes above and beyond for the kids, buying them clothes, shoes, backpacks, and food, and being a friend to them. He says the children face a lot when they are not in his care, so he does whatever he can to lend a helping hand.