Jennifer Hudson made her first public appearance last night since three members of her family were killed.

The American Idol singer’s mum Darnell Donerson, 57, brother Jason, 29, and 7-year-old nephew Julian King were shot dead in Chicago in October.

Jen, 27, who is nominated for four gongs at this month’s Grammys, has avoided all work engagements until now because of the tragedy.

She received rapturous applause from the crowd when she performed the American national anthem at the Super Bowl event in Miami’s Raymond James Stadium.

Julian’s stepdad William Balfour was officially charged over the deaths in December.

Other celebs at the Super Bowl included Paris Hilton, 27, Carmen Electra, 36, and Bruce Springsteen, 59.