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Blair Underwood opened up on the Jennifer Hudson Show about his upcoming book, “A Soldier’s Wife,” a heartfelt tribute to his late mother. The actor shared intimate memories of Marilyn Ann Scales Underwood, who passed away in 2020. Her influence shaped his legendary career from Petersburg, Virginia to Hollywood stardom.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Book Release: “A Soldier’s Wife” arrives April 14, 2026, published by Amistad
- Jennifer Hudson Interview: Underwood appeared February 25, 2026 on the talk show
- Full Title: My Mother, the Marvelous Mrs. Marilyn A. Underwood
- Mother’s Legacy: Marilyn was a fashion designer and first Black executive at Barman Brothers in Buffalo
A Tribute Born from Love and Broadway Magic
Underwood described his new book as a “love letter” to the woman who introduced him to the arts. “She and my dad were my heroes,” he told Hudson during Wednesday’s episode. Marilyn spent the final 20 years of her life in a wheelchair battling multiple sclerosis, yet her spirit never wavered. Her crowning moment came on opening night of Underwood’s Broadway play “A Soldier’s Play,” where she got dressed up and attended one last time.
The Emmy Award winner calls her his greatest inspiration. “She was balling before, you know, a lot of folks,” Underwood reflected, praising her trailblazing spirit in the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s.
Blair Underwood releases ‘A Soldier’s Wife’ honoring late mother on Jennifer Hudson Show
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From Petersburg High School to Hollywood Glory
Underwood’s family relocated to Petersburg, Virginia in 1979, where the future star attended high school. His mother’s support proved instrumental in his journey to Carnegie Mellon University. She championed his love for performance long before Underwood became a television and film icon. Marilyn introduced him to Broadway and encouraged artistic exploration when few Black families had access to such opportunities.
The connection between mother and son deepened through culture and education. Underwood’s father, Frank Eugene Underwood Sr., was a retired 28-year Army colonel, giving the book title its full meaning.
A Soldier’s Wife: What’s Inside
| Detail | Information |
| Title | A Soldier’s Wife: My Mother, the Marvelous Mrs. Marilyn A. Underwood |
| Author | Blair Underwood |
| Publisher | Amistad |
| Release Date | April 14, 2026 |
“That’s my mama. She was balling before, you know, a lot of folks. She was a phenomenal woman.”
‘ Blair Underwood, during Jennifer Hudson Show appearance
Beyond Acting: Underwood’s Community Impact
Underwood revealed his passion for giving back extends far beyond Hollywood. The Golden Globe nominee co-owns the Oakland Ballers, a minor league baseball team in the Pioneer League. After Oakland lost the Raiders, Athletics, and Golden State Warriors, the Ballers brought hope to the community. Last year, the team won the championship, fulfilling Underwood’s vision of community pride.
He also founded the AHF Blair Underwood Health Care Center in Washington, D.C., which has served patients for 16 years. After learning that HIV/AIDS was the leading cause of death for Black women in the community, Underwood sprang into action. The clinic provides comprehensive healthcare services with many medications available free of charge.
Why Audiences Should Pre-Order This Powerful Memoir?
“A Soldier’s Wife” arrives at a moment when diverse voices sharing family stories matter more than ever. Underwood’s book is organized thematically, gently peeling back layers of his mother’s remarkable life. Readers gain insight into her journey as a soldier’s wife, devoted mother, and successful entrepreneur who refused to be limited by her era. The book celebrates resilience, faith, and the quiet power of maternal influence.
Pre-orders are now available through major retailers including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Harper Collins. Underwood’s genuine admiration for his mother shines throughout, making this essential reading for anyone seeking inspiration from real-life triumph.
Sources
- Jennifer Hudson Show – “Blair Underwood” episode, February 25, 2026
- WTVR CBS 6 News – “Petersburg’s Blair Underwood pens love letter to his late mother in new book ‘A Soldier’s Wife'”
- Harper Collins – Official book listing for “A Soldier’s Wife“
