Cowell, Abdul send condolences to Hudson

Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul have sent their condolences to Jennifer Hudson following the deaths of her mother, brother and nephew.

The American Idol judges both released statements after police confirmed they had found the body of the singer and actress's 7-year-old nephew Julian King.

"This is a horrific tragedy and my thoughts and prayers go out to Jennifer and her entire family," said Abdul.

"The time I had to get to know Jennifer and forge a wonderful friendship with her while she was on Idol was very special to me, and I personally can't imagine a greater loss for any family."

Cowell told Extra: "I was horrified when I heard the news. This is an appalling tragedy. My thoughts right now are with Jennifer, and her family."

Hudson's mother Darnell, 57, and brother Jason, 29, were found on Friday afternoon shot dead at their family home in Chicago.