Simon & Paula React to Hudson Tragedy

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As word leaks out around the world of the tragic murders of Jennifer Hudson's mother, brother and nephew, her former critics, American Idol judges Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul, are reaching out to the Oscar-winning actress.

In an interview with Extra from London, Cowell said, "I was horrified when I heard the news. This is an appalling tragedy. My thoughts right now are with Jennifer and her family."

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

Earlier today, Chicago police confirmed that the body of a young boy found in an SUV was that of Hudson's nephew, 7-year-old Julian King. The actress had remained hopeful that the missing boy would be found, offering a $100,000 reward for knowledge of his whereabouts.

The news comes at the heels of Friday's shocking shooting deaths of Hudson's mother and brother. Police are currently calling Hudson's brother-in-law and Julian's step-father, William Balfour, a "person of interest."