**Jennifer Hudson Launches Financial Literacy Game for Teens**
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Jennifer Hudson is taking a proactive step towards promoting financial literacy among young people, particularly her own son, David Daniel Otunga Jr., who is on the cusp of adulthood at 16. The acclaimed singer and actress has partnered with Credit One Bank to launch a new educational game titled *Cards on the Table*, which is now available for free download. The initiative is aimed at teaching teenagers about credit and financial responsibility in an accessible manner.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Hudson expressed her determination to prepare David for financial independence better than she felt prepared at his age. “I’m trying to find ways to teach him different things about credit,” she shared. “It’s hard to get young people’s attention, so what better way than through a game, almost like tricking them into it?” Her motivation stems from a desire to equip her son with the tools he needs to navigate the complexities of credit and personal finance as he transitions into adulthood.
The *Cards on the Table* game is designed to educate users about establishing positive credit habits. Hudson noted that it addresses “commonly asked questions” surrounding credit, making it a useful resource for David and his peers. “I want him to understand how important it is to try to create good credit,” she explained. “For example, it’s about not maxing out that credit card and making sure you pay your bills on time. When you think about it, our credit is our grade in our adulthood.”
Hudson, who shares David with her ex-fiancé, David Otunga Sr., is acutely aware that many individuals only start thinking about their finances when they encounter serious credit issues. She hopes that the game’s engaging format will encourage teenagers to engage with financial education earlier. “I’m grateful for a game like this that can help educate my son for the future,” she said.
David, born in August 2009, has grown up in the limelight, often accompanying his mother to various events. Hudson’s rise to fame began in 2004 when she became a finalist on *American Idol,* and since then, she has established herself as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, becoming one of only a few people to achieve EGOT status—winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony.
In recent months, David has made appearances with his mother at high-profile events, including the 2026 NBA All-Star Game and the American Black Film Festival Honors, events that celebrate achievement in sports and film. Hudson remarked on how quickly her son has grown, quipping, “He’s 16 now, so if he comes outside with Mama, that’s a compliment in itself.” She recalled how often people are surprised at how much he has changed, as they still think of him as “little David.”
Their mother-son bond remains strong, as evidenced by a sweet moment Hudson shared after taking David to the premiere of *GOAT*, a new animated sports comedy where she voices a character. “He was like, ‘Mama, this is a great film,’” Hudson recalled. For a mother in the entertainment industry, gaining “cool points” from a teenage son is a significant achievement.
With digital tools like *Cards on the Table,* Hudson is attempting to bridge the gap between entertainment and essential life skills. The game not only addresses issues of credit but also endeavours to inspire a new generation to engage with their financial futures responsibly. Hudson’s decision to incorporate gaming into financial education reflects a growing trend of using interactive methods to teach important life skills, a move she hopes will resonate with other parents and their children alike.
Jennifer Hudson’s commitment to instilling good financial habits in her son aligns with a wider cultural recognition of the importance of financial literacy for young adults today. As financial challenges become increasingly complex, equipping the younger generation with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions is more crucial than ever. Through her efforts with Credit One Bank and *Cards on the Table*, Hudson is taking meaningful steps towards ensuring that her son—and all young people—are better prepared for the financial responsibilities of adulthood.