The American Idol hopeful turned award-winning actress Jennifer Hudson has signed on to play Nelson Mandela’s ex-wife Winnie in a movie about her life.

Variety magazine reported Hudson was thrilled about the role and has described Ms Madikizela-Mandela as a “powerful and extraordinary woman.”

Ms. Mandela played a huge role in freeing her husband after 27 years in jail. Nelson Mandela and Ms Madikizela-Mandela were divorced in 1996 just four years after his release from Robben Island. Although South Africans celebrate her involvement in releasing Mandela, she has been linked to serious controversies. In 2003, Winnine Mandela was convicted of theft and fraud. She was also implicated in the kidnap and murder of young activist Stompie Seipei, who was believed to be an informer for the apartheid government – although she has always denied the charges.

South African film-maker Darrell Roodt, who helmed Cry, The Beloved Country and Sarafina, will direct the Winnie Mandela film.

However, Hudson’s film is not the only picture being made involving Nelson Mandella. Clint Eastwood is also preparing to release the movie “Invictus,” which stars Morgan Freeman as the first black president of South Africa.

Photos by Wenn.com