Jennifer Hudson admits she takes a collection plate around The Voice audience to collect money for the contestant’s performances

JENNIFER Hudson has revealed how she takes a collection plate around The Voice UK audience after contestant's audition.

The 36-year-old is back on the coaching panel for the next series alongside will.i.am, Sir Tom Jones and new addition Olly Murs.

Speaking ahead of the show's launch in January, Jennifer revealed an unusual tradition she has at the auditions.

Asked about a collection plate she had with her last year, she said: "A fan gave it to me in America.

"She said every time I sing, I take everyone to church and then she gave me a collection plate.

"I said I would take it with me to The Voice UK. In church, we take up a collection after the choir sings.

"So if the acts have sung exceptionally well, I feel the need to get up and take a collection from the audience.

"Of course any money collected will go to charity."

While Jennifer likes to collect the money for worthy causes, she admits she still struggles with the British currency.

She added: "I have no idea what the money is! I have travelled all across to the UK and I still can't figure it out.

"It's fancy currency!"

Jennifer is delighted to be back in her spinning red chair, having won during her first season last year with Mo Adeniran.

She said: "I'm so excited to be back! It feels different returning after having the winning contestant last season.

"My first season, I had the pressure of being new and now I have the pressure of being reigning champion.

"I am trying not to think about it too much and just have fun with it."

As for new addition Olly, she said: "He is so fun. I love his energy and excitement.

"Since he also had a similar experience, he can relate to the contestants too, which is cool."

The Voice UK returns to ITV at 8pm on Saturday, January 6. 

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