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Jennifer Hudson will be present in a Chicago courtroom as proceedings open in the trial of William Balfour, the man accused of murdering three of her family members.

Balfour allegedly killed Jennifer’s mother, brother and nephew 3.5 years ago.

Her celebrity status will play a role in the jury selection process, as potential jurors will be directly questioned about their familiarity with Hudson and her projects.

Jennifer Hudson, Son
(Getty Images)

Questions the would-be jurors can expect: Have they seen Hudson in any films; if they’ve ever seen her in concert; if they have any ties to products she endorses; etc.

The idea behind the inquisition is to eliminate any jurors whose devotion to Hudson and her work and fame would hinder their ability to come to an unbiased decision.

Balfour faces charges of murder, aggravated kidnapping and home invasion in the 2008 deaths of Darnell Hudson Donerson, 57; Jason Hudson, 29; and Julian King, 7.

Opening statements in the case commence April 23.