Hudson grateful for fans’ support

In her first statement since burying her slain mother, brother and nephew, Jennifer Hudson thanked her fans for their encouragement during the tragic ordeal.

“I want to thank each and every one of you for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” the 27-year-old Oscar-winning actress and singer said in a posting on her MySpace page Thursday evening. “My sister and I take great comfort and strength from your love and concern.”

Last week, Hudson buried her mother, 57-year-old Darnell Donerson; her brother, Jason Hudson, 29; and her 7-year-old nephew, Julian King. The bodies of her mother and brother were found shot on Oct. 24 in the family home in Chicago, while Julian -- who had also been shot -- was found dead in an SUV three days later.

Meanwhile, the Gap unveiled new ads featuring a cheerful-looking Hudson for the company’s winter campaign. The clothing chain considered removing the images but decided to keep them after the star said she wanted to go ahead with the campaign, a representative said Friday.