American singer and actress Jennifer Hudson has expressed her admiration for Yanga Sobetwa, the winner of Idols SA season 14, after stumbling upon a powerful video of the South African star performing Hudson’s iconic song “If This Isn’t Love”. The viral moment caught Hudson’s attention, and she took to Instagram to show love to the talented singer.
“I cannot believe I am just now seeing this! @YangaSobetwa, u did that!!! ‘If This Isn’t Love’ will always have a special place in my heart, and it was a joy hearing u sing it! I’m a fan!!!!” Jennifer wrote, sharing the video with her followers. Hudson, who herself became a global sensation after finishing as a finalist on American Idol season 3 in 2004, was clearly moved by Yanga’s heartfelt performance.
I cannot believe I am just now seeing this! @yanga_sobetwa, u did that!!! “If This Isn’t Love” will always have a special place in my heart, and it was a joy hearing u sing it! 💜 I’m a fan!!!!
Yanga, who won Idols SA in 2018 at just 17 years old, was a Grade 11 student at Rhodes High School in Cape Town when she claimed the coveted title. Along with her victory, which included over R1 million in prizes, Yanga has since used her platform to speak candidly about the mental health challenges she faced, including struggles with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Today, the soulful artist has found peace in her faith, becoming a devoted gospel singer and releasing a song titled ‘Jeso O Ntekane’. She is also an active member of a worship group at her church.
The heartfelt acknowledgment from Jennifer Hudson marks a beautiful moment of international connection, with two artists who have both overcome obstacles to achieve success now sharing mutual admiration.
