Hollywood studios Paramount and DreamWorks have denied speculation they are pushing BEYONCE KNOWLES for a Best Actress nomination for DREAMGIRLS, ahead of the film's star JENNIFER HUDSON.
Internet reports claim former AMERICAN IDOL contestant Hudson's contract includes a clause which gave the studios the right to defer her performance as EFFIE WHITE to the Best Supporting Actress category, in favour of her famous co-star's turn as DEENA JONES.
A Paramount spokesperson tells the New York Daily News, "It was not contractual." But a source tells the newspaper, "Jennifer doesn't see it as an issue. She can win as Supporting Actress. It's where she has the strongest chance."