At the 2025 Gotham Awards in New York City, Hugh Jackman brought laughter to the crowd with a playful jab at Ryan Reynolds, while accepting the inaugural Gotham Musical Tribute alongside Kate Hudson. The moment stood out as both actors were honored for their roles in “Song Sung Blue,” making the Ryan Reynolds Gotham Awards troll one of the night’s most talked-about moments.
Jackman and Hudson Receive the First Gotham Musical Tribute
During a lively ceremony on December 1 at Cipriani Wall Street, Hugh Jackman, 57, and Kate Hudson, 46, were celebrated for their performances in the upcoming musical film “Song Sung Blue.” The event marked the debut of the Gotham Musical Tribute, acknowledging musical excellence in film. The duo made a memorable entrance to Neil Diamond’s “Sweet Caroline,” with Hudson enthusiastically echoing the lyrics as she began her remarks.
Reflecting on her experience, Hudson spoke about the collaborative spirit of the film, looking at Jackman and director Craig Brewer as she credited their teamwork.
“From the first day in the recording studio with you and you to finding duets in Neil [Diamond]’s music,”
Hudson said. She continued,
“Harmonizing and performing with Hugh, which has been one of the great joys of my career.”
– Kate Hudson, Actress
Hudson emphasized the central importance of music in her life, sharing,
“Music has always been the great narrator of my life. I don’t know where I’d be without it.”
– Kate Hudson, Actress
Jackman Delivers a Lighthearted Jab at Ryan Reynolds and Celebrates Musical Storytelling
With applause still ringing from Hudson’s words, Jackman accepted the honor with characteristic humor, making a friendly dig at his frequent on-screen rival.
“Thank you so much. This is so cool and something to make Ryan Reynolds insanely jealous,”
Jackman teased from the stage, drawing laughter and playing up the well-known camaraderie—and competitive banter—between the two stars. – Hugh Jackman, Actor
After his witty comment, Jackman shifted the focus to the film’s powerful themes. The Australian actor praised “Song Sung Blue” for its depiction of
“real people, real lives, real struggles, real love.”
– Hugh Jackman, Actor
He expressed admiration for Hudson’s talent and predicted critical success, stating,
“Kate Hudson is not only one of the great stars of our business, she is a consummate actor,”
before suggesting that she is likely to win an Oscar for her performance in the musical. – Hugh Jackman, Actor
The Cast and Story of “Song Sung Blue”
The musical film “Song Sung Blue” is directed and written by Craig Brewer, and in addition to Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, features an ensemble cast that includes Michael Imperioli, Ella Anderson, King Princess, Mustafa Shakir, Hudson Hensley, Fisher Stevens, and Jim Belushi. The film tells the story of a real-life Milwaukee musical duo who were part of a Neil Diamond tribute band, exploring their journey through music, connection, and resilience.
Hudson, who shines in the film as both a singer and an actor, has generated significant Oscar buzz for her lead role. The film’s world premiere took place at the AFI Film Festival earlier this year, setting the stage for heightened anticipation ahead of its Christmas Day theatrical release in the U.S.
Award Organizers Applaud the Stars and the Power of Music
Jeffrey Sharp, executive director of the Gotham Film & Media Institute, spoke highly of the lead actors’ work.
“Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman deliver performances in Song Sung Blue that are at once powerful, intimate, and deeply human,”
Sharp noted, underlining the authentic connection the two share on screen. – Jeffrey Sharp, Executive Director, Gotham Film & Media Institute
He continued,
“Their connection on screen, and the soulful way they bring this true story to life, channel the timeless music of Neil Diamond while revealing their own artistry and spirit. It’s a film that reminds us how music can uplift and inspire — and we’re thrilled to celebrate their extraordinary artistry with our new Gotham Musical Tribute at this year’s Gotham Film Awards.”
– Jeffrey Sharp, Executive Director, Gotham Film & Media Institute
Kate Hudson Reflects on Oscar Buzz and the Joy of Performance
Reacting to the early awards attention, Hudson remained focused on the experience rather than accolades.
“Honestly, it’s really just exciting. It’s very exciting and that’s it,”
she stated in a November interview, keeping her expectations tempered by her years in the industry. – Kate Hudson, Actress
“You never know with these things. I’ve been around now long enough to know just to enjoy that people are really loving the movie. And just, you know, show up to where they tell me to go!”
Hudson added, illustrating her down-to-earth approach, even as “Song Sung Blue” positions her as a frontrunner in the Lead Actress race. – Kate Hudson, Actress
The Gotham Awards: Honoring Indie Film Excellence in 2025
The Gotham Awards, presented annually by the Gotham Film and Media Institute, recognize achievement in independent film, with performers considered in gender-neutral categories since 2021. For 2025, “One Battle Another” leads nominations with six, including Best Feature, facing competition from notable titles such as “Bugonia,” “East of Wall,” “Familiar Touch,” “Hamnet,”
“If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,”
“Lurker,” “Sorry, Baby,” “The Testament of Ann Lee,” and “Train Dreams.”
This year’s celebration also included special tributes: director Noah Baumbach was commended for his work on “Jay Kelly,” actress Tessa Thompson received the Spotlight Tribute for “Hedda,” “Frankenstein” was honored with the Gotham Vanguard Tribute, and the ensemble cast of “Sinners” received recognition for their collective performance. Luca Guadagnino and Julia Roberts were jointly awarded the Visionary Tribute for “After the Hunt.”
Jeffrey Sharp celebrated the depth of talent represented:
“This year’s nominees celebrate an extraordinary year of cinematic achievement — one defined by bold, original storytelling, festival breakouts and filmmakers whose independent vision extends across studios and streamers.”
– Jeffrey Sharp, Executive Director, Gotham Film & Media Institute
He also remarked,
“This year’s Gotham nominees, and our Gotham Tributes, reflect the year’s most accomplished filmmakers and performers and embody the community that has defined The Gothams for 35 years.”
– Jeffrey Sharp, Executive Director, Gotham Film & Media Institute
What Comes Next for “Song Sung Blue” and the Gotham Awards
With its Christmas Day release looming, “Song Sung Blue” is positioned as a major awards contender, strengthening the bond between musical storytelling and cinematic recognition. The playful exchange between Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds is likely to keep fans entertained, while Kate Hudson’s acclaimed work, as well as the ensemble cast’s performances, set the stage for a potentially record-setting awards season. As the Gotham Awards continue to spotlight innovative artists and authentic storytelling, both the film and its stars look set to leave a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike.
