Jennifer Hudson to star in 'Winnie'

Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Hudson ("Dreamgirls") moves to South Africa in Darrell J. Roodt's upcoming film "Winnie," a drama focusing on Nelson Mandela's former wife Winnie Mandela.

Based on Anne Marie du Preez Bezdrob's biography “Winnie Mandela: A Life," the film follows Winnie's life during her years as Mandela's wife, who fought for his release and ended up being convicted for fraud.

Andre Pieterse, Roodt and Paul L. Johnson penned the script, and Hudson told Variety she is honored to play such a complex role. The filmmakers also said they will focus on the story's good and bad sides.

Hudson's acting credits also include "Sex and the City" and "The Secret Life of Bees." This is her first role after her recent family tragedy.