Usher reveals reason for giving up acting role in Dreamgirls

Usher has revealed he had to give up a part in Dreamgirls due to a "scheduling conflict".

During an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show on Tuesday, the U Got It Bad hitmaker recounted to host Jennifer how he was lined-up to take on a role in the 2006 musical drama but ended up having to give up the acting gig as he was on tour at the time.

"You didn't know that I was supposed to be a part of that movie, this movie you went on to win a major, major award for," he began, referring to Jennifer winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Effie White in the film.

"Are you talking about Dreamgirls?" she exclaimed. "Wait, you were going to be in Dreamgirls?"

Usher replied, "Yes," while a stunned Jennifer added, "I didn't even know this, y'all."

The music star didn't name the part he was set to portray, however, it was previously reported that he was to play C.C. White - Effie's brother. Keith Robinson was ultimately cast in the role.

"I was so excited for what was getting ready to happen. (I) tried my hardest to kind of work around it, but, unfortunately, schedule just didn't permit," the 46-year-old said. "I would have been a part of the history with you. But I am a part of the history with you because we all celebrate you for such an encouraging talent for our young women out here."

Jennifer then suggested that they collaborate on a duet in the future to make up for not co-starring in Dreamgirls.

"I would love that," he smiled.

Directed by Bill Condon, Dreamgirls also featured Jamie Foxx, Beyoncé, and Eddie Murphy.

Elsewhere in the conversation, Usher explained why he didn't attend the 2025 Grammy Awards at the weekend despite garnering a nod in the Best R&B Album category for Coming Home.

Accordingly, the Yeah! hitmaker noted that he wanted to be respectful of the communities affected by the California wildfires.

"This is no disrespect to the (Recording) Academy or anything like that but I didn't want it to come across as disrespectful in any way. I wanted to make something that honoured them because we're hurting for them," he added. "I know people that have lost everything. And I know tonnes of people out there that I've never met that have lost everything and I want to help those people."