Jennifer Hudson’s son, David Otunga Jr., recently made a rare social media appearance that left fans stunned by how much he’s grown. The 16-year-old was featured in photos from his homecoming celebration, looking more adult than ever.

His father, David Otunga, shared a heartfelt post with side-by-side images of himself and his son at their respective high-school dances. “DOJ Homecoming! Swipe to see Me as Homecoming #homecoming,” Otunga captioned the images, highlighting the striking resemblance between the two generations.

David Jr. embodied sophistication in his homecoming attire, sporting black slacks, a crisp white button-up shirt, and a navy blazer. He complemented the look with neatly styled cornrows, a departure from his usual afro, which he proudly maintains even while attending a predominantly white school. His date also captured attention in a sparkling mini dress and sleek hairstyle, drawing admiration from fans in the comments.

One fan perfectly captured the sentiment of many, exclaiming, “I remember seeing him as a baby! Omg I feel old!”

Although the EGOT winner generally keeps her son’s life private, Jennifer Hudson shares glimpses of their special bond occasionally. This past August, she celebrated David’s 16th birthday on the set of The Jennifer Hudson Show with a surprise “spirit tunnel” party. Hudson shared the joyful moment on Instagram, saying, “Now of course yal know we had to serenade Doj with his own surprise birthday #SpiritTunnel, first thing in the morning on his bday!”

“… Now Team Jhud can y’all join the spirit tunnel and wish my baby a very Happy 16th Birthday!!! You know what to do! Happy 16th Birthday @d.o.j10.”

The daytime television host and former wrestler share one child from their 10-year relationship, which included a nine-year engagement before they split in 2017. Reflecting on her son’s growth, Hudson told Essence Magazine in 2024 that parenting a teenager feels like watching time speed up overnight.

“He went to sleep in the room, took a nap with his mohawk, and when I tell you he came out, had a whole new nose, and shot up. I was like, ‘Where did my child go? Who is this?’ That’s how quickly it happens,” she said.

“Each phase of raising a kid is different from the last. So, it’s like, okay, how do you need me now? How do I parent you now with where you are right now? We’re finding a new norm, and I’m preparing him for what’s to come.”