Today will likely be one of the most difficult days of Jennifer Hudson’s life As we type, the Oscar winner is taking the stand to testify in the trial of William Balfour, the man accused of murdering her mother, brother and nephew in 2008. Balfour – who has pleaded not guilty – faces first degree murder charges. Prosecutors believe he flew into a rage and committed these heinous acts after seeing a gift to Julia Hudson, Balfour’s ex-girlfriend and Jennifer’s sibling, that he thought was from a new man in her life. The trial got underway this morning. UPDATE : Jennifer reportedly broke down on the stand twice during her testimony when talking about her family and looking at a photo of her mom.
Despite her recent nightclub altercation (and the other, strikingly similar recent nightclub altercation ) Lindsay Lohan is set to star as the legendary Elizabeth Taylor in the Lifetime original movie Liz & Dick, the network itself confirms. Filming will begin in early June in Los Angeles, with LiLo as Liz. For nearly a quarter of a century, Taylor and Richard Burton were Hollywood royalty and the fiery romance they shared was often called “the marriage of the century.” It was the most notorious, publicized and celebrated love affair of its day. Swarmed by press, Taylor and Burton’s love affair was one of the first romances to play out in the public eye … something celebrity gossip staple Lohan can relate to. Says Lifetime of the film and its lead: “Despite their roller coaster romance for the public eye to see, Taylor and Burton shared an undeniable love greater than most people could have dreamed.” Regarding the announcement, Lohan said: “I have always admired and had enormous respect for Elizabeth Taylor . She was not only an incredible actress but an amazing woman as well.” “I am very honored to have been asked to play this role.” “We are thrilled Lindsay will portray beloved Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor,” added the network. “She is one of the rare actresses who possesses the talent, beauty and intrigue to capture the spirit of such a provocative icon.” With any luck, she’ll also stay sober throughout! [Photo: Pacific Coast News]
