Common Opens Up About His Stance on Marriage and His Relationship with Jennifer Hudson
February 13, 2024
In a candid interview on NBC’s “Today with Hoda & Jenna,” Grammy Award-winning rapper and actor Common, 51, shared his evolving perspective on marriage and relationships, shedding light on his personal journey and his hopes for the future.
Embracing the Possibility of Marriage
When asked by host Hoda Kotb if he sees marriage in his own future, Common responded with a newfound openness, acknowledging his personal growth and the transformative impact it has had on his outlook on relationships. He expressed, “I feel like I have grown, and the work that I’ve done on myself has allowed me to see that I am a marrying type.”
This revelation marks a significant shift for Common, who previously held a more guarded stance on marriage. He explained that he now recognizes his capacity for marital commitment and the potential for a fulfilling partnership. However, he emphasized the importance of timing and alignment, stating, “At some point in my life, I may want to do that, but I’ll know when the right time is.”
Honesty and Communication as Key Elements
Common emphasized the significance of open communication and honesty in any romantic relationship, particularly when it comes to discussing marriage. He stated, “I would communicate with that person, and if she’s feeling that, then why not?” This approach underscores his commitment to transparency and mutual understanding in his relationships.
A Glimpse into Common and Jennifer Hudson’s Connection
The interview also touched upon Common’s recent appearance on “The Jennifer Hudson Show,” which sparked a surge of speculation and excitement among fans. Common spoke fondly of his experience on the show, describing it as a playful and honest exchange between two individuals who share a deep connection. He explained, “We had a little fun. I felt like, why not just be loving and honest with who I am and who we are. And it felt good, it was fun, we had a good time.”
Navigating Privacy and Public Perception
Common acknowledged his preference for privacy regarding his personal life, stating, “I’m a very private person when it comes to my personal life and things that are sacred.” However, he expressed his willingness to share certain aspects of his relationship with Hudson on her show, emphasizing the positive and enjoyable nature of their interaction.
Personal Growth and Evolving Relationship Dynamics
Common reflected on his personal journey and the evolution of his approach to relationships. He candidly admitted to past patterns influenced by childhood experiences that hindered his ability to be fully present and authentic in his partnerships. He shared, “Certain things that I would do in relationships were based on childhood experiences, and I wasn’t being totally present in the relationship. I would carry things that had affected me before and would project that onto the person.”
Through self-awareness and introspection, Common has gained a deeper understanding of his own needs and boundaries, leading to a more conscious and intentional approach to relationships. He explained, “Once you start recognizing that and just having an understanding of, ‘I need to be present,’ and you’re conscious of that, you can step back and say, ‘Hey, let me assess this and really be true and honest with what this relationship is.’ And not bring my garbage, my baggage.”
Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Love
Common emphasized the importance of setting boundaries in his life, recognizing it as an essential aspect of self-love. He stated, “That’s hard to do. And boundaries for yourself — that’s what self-love is like.” This realization reflects his commitment to his own well-being and his understanding of the importance of self-care in maintaining healthy relationships.
Speculation and Public Appearances
The interview comes amidst ongoing speculation about a romantic relationship between Common and Academy Award-winning actress and singer Jennifer Hudson. The rumors gained traction in 2022 when the pair was spotted together in Philadelphia and Chicago following the announcement of their upcoming collaboration in the action-thriller “Breathe.”
While they have remained coy about their romantic involvement, their recent public appearances together, particularly at NBA games, have further fueled the speculation. Common’s candid interview on “Today with Hoda & Jenna” offers a glimpse into his personal journey and his evolving perspective on marriage and relationships, providing fans with a deeper understanding of the artist and his approach to love.