When Jennifer Hudson stepped on stage at Culture Con in New York City over the weekend, she came in the way that “The Jennifer Hudson Show” has made famous: with her own Spirit Tunnel. This special moment thrilled the E.G.O.T. singer and host, as well as the cultured crowd. There’s something so special about Hudson getting the same VIP treatment she gives to her guests at the Happy Place. A clip posted on Instagram shows her walking down the aisle as staffers lined up to cheer, clap, and chant her name.

The Spirit Tunnel has become a defining ritual of “The Jennifer Hudson Show.” Originally created by Hudson’s staff to welcome her backstage, Hudson later decided to share it with the world. “They used to do it for me as I would come out, and I’m like, ‘Y’all, we need to be showing this to the world. Show it!” Hudson told People. Over time, this ritual evolved into a viral moment of joy and inclusion whenever celebrities appear on the show. 

According to NPR, the Spirit Tunnel takes seconds, but it lasts forever. Those precious few seconds show the world parts of their favorite celeb’s personality and persona. Do they have rhythm? Are they quick-witted? Can they even dance? It’s not a performance, rather a way of infusing celebration into arrival, making visibility ritualized and vibrant. And let’s not forget viral! Hello, Aaron Pierre, that’s Mufasaaaa!

So, for Hudson to get to walk that walk at Culture Con, chef’s kiss! Everyone knows JHud is worthy of all that love and happiness she puts out into the world. It’s giving full circle!

In spaces like Culture Con, where Black creativity, fashion, art, and culture converge, Hudson’s walk solidified that yes, this unique celebration belongs to her and the show, but it also belongs to the people.