Former American Idol contestant Jennifer Hudson may not have won the Idol title during her Season 3 stint on the show, but her consolation prizes — an Academy Award for her role as Effie White in Dreamgirls, and a highly successful career in film and music following the show — more than made up for it. And as the series comes to an end this year, the acclaimed performer will be returning to the American Idol stage once more for a proper celebratory send-off.

On March 30, Fox confirmed that the star, currently performing in The Color Purple on Broadway, will make an appearance by means of a pre-taped performance. In addition, Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson (who has also pre-taped her performance due to her pregnancy) are also set to perform for the finale.

The two-night American Idol finale airs live on April 6 and April 7 from Hollywood's Dolby Theatre. Other former contestants who are confirmed to perform or make special appearances include Fantasia, Ruben Studdard, Jordin Sparks, David Cook, Chris Daughtry, Elliott Yamin, Constantine Maroulis, Scott McCreery, Kellie Pickler, and Katharine McPhee, among others.

There's no word on whether William Hung or the "Pants on the Ground" guy will appear, but our fingers are crossed.

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