Simon Cowell has given his condolences to Jennifer Hudson following a string of tragic family murders.

The X Factor judge told a US publication that his thoughts are with the family during such a difficult time.

Simon told Usmagazine.com, "What has happened is absolutely horrendous.

"My thoughts go out to Jennifer and all her family. This is absolutely horrible."

The body of Jennifer Hudson's seven-year-old nephew was found yesterday in an abandoned car in Chicago.

Julian King was the third member of their family found shot dead after Jennifer's mother Darnell Donnerson and her brother Jason were dicovered in their family home on Friday.

The Oscar winning actress' brother in law is being questioned by police.