Jennifer Hudson has spoken out for the first time since her mother, brother and nephew were murdered - thanking the public for their support.

Hudson's mother, Darnell Donerson, and brother, Jason, were shot dead at their home in Chicago, Illinois on 24 October. The body of her seven-year-old nephew, Julian King, was found in an abandoned car three days later.

Now the Oscar-winning Dreamgirls star has used her MySpace blog to post a message of thanks to all those who have expressed their sympathy since the horrific killings.

Hudson writes, "I want to thank each and every one of you for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time... My sister and I take great comfort and strength from your love and concern."