Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, who portray a married music duo in the new biographical drama Song Sung Blue, have shared insight into what they learned from each other while working on the project, emphasizing the strong professional bond they formed during production. The film, which showcases the Neil Diamond tribute act Lightning & Thunder and centers on the lives of entertainers Mike and Claire Sardinia, is directed by Craig Brewer and features a notable ensemble cast, making the Hugh Jackman Song Sung Blue collaboration a highlight in both actors’ careers.
Star-Studded Cast Brings Lightning & Thunder to Life
In Song Sung Blue, Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson are joined by actors such as Michael Imperioli, Ella Anderson, Mustafa Shakir, Fisher Stevens, Beth Malone, King Princess, and Jim Belushi. The story draws heavily from the real-life experiences of Mike “Lightning” Sardinia and Claire “Thunder” Sardinia, who gained recognition as a Neil Diamond tribute act. The cast’s dynamic energy and connection were apparent during the film’s press tour, as seen through the duo’s positive social media interactions.
The chemistry developed off-camera by Jackman and Hudson has greatly contributed to their portrayals, setting the stage for memorable performances onscreen. The project comes from director Craig Brewer, recognized for his work on Dolemite Is My Name, and the film’s release is anticipated to resonate with both critics and fans of musical dramas.
Recognition at Gotham Film Awards
On December 1, at the 35th annual Gotham Film Awards in New York City, Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson were honored with the first-ever Gotham Musical Tribute for their roles in Song Sung Blue. According to a press release from the Gotham Film & Media Institute, Executive Director Jeffrey Sharp noted,
“Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman deliver performances in Song Sung Blue that are at once powerful, intimate, and deeply human.”
– Jeffrey Sharp, Executive Director, Gotham Film & Media Institute.
During the awards ceremony, the actors discussed with People magazine the meaningful lessons they took from working together, revealing how their partnership enhanced their craft and mutual admiration.
Jackman Learns Nuances of On-Screen Acting from Hudson
Hugh Jackman, well-known for leading roles in acclaimed musicals such as Les Misérables and The Greatest Showman, openly credited Kate Hudson with teaching him new aspects of film acting during Song Sung Blue. Despite his extensive experience across nearly 50 movies, Jackman acknowledged Hudson’s exceptional approach to the craft.
“I learned a lot from Kate. I learned about acting on film, actually. I’ve done almost 50 films, but, somehow, working with Kate — it’s a very difficult thing to describe — but the mixture of being prepared and just being instinctive is a really fine line and no one does it better than Kate Hudson.”
– Hugh Jackman, Actor
He expanded on this, discussing Hudson’s willingness to advocate for creative decisions that ultimately improved the film.
“Being with her, I learned and I think I became a better actor. Also, there were two key moments where she stuck up for the film, which was inconvenient for timing and everyone, but both of the moments are key moments in the movie now. So, it’s sort of that idea of picking your battles, knowing when you need to just really say, ‘No I disagree.’ And I learned that from Kate, because she’s the sweetest, nicest, kindest, always great. So when Kate Hudson says, ‘I think this is a mistake, I think we should go left and not right,’ everyone stops and listens.”
– Hugh Jackman, Actor
As Jackman pointed out, his admiration for Hudson is significant considering his established reputation in musical cinema. The recognition coming from a seasoned performer highlights the high caliber of Hudson’s artistry in this production. Notably, industry buzz around potential Academy Award nominations for Hudson’s portrayal of Claire Sardinia further underscores her impact in the film.
Hudson Applauds Jackman’s Gift for Connection
Kate Hudson responded in kind, emphasizing Hugh Jackman’s ability to connect with people across different environments, whether on stage, on set, or in personal interactions. She articulated how this quality distinguishes Jackman not just as an actor, but as a colleague and friend.
“Hugh, his superpower is to connect. Whether it’s on stage, whether it’s on set, whether it’s with anyone and everyone — he just wants to connect and he wants to make sure that everyone’s happy. I learned that one of the great gifts you can give people is that you actually have a desire to connect to them.”
– Kate Hudson, Actress
Hudson elaborated directly to her co-star, highlighting the distinct effort Jackman brings to every interaction:
“I think you give that to everybody — even though I’m sure it takes a lot from you. You’re like a masseuse who’s constantly giving energy to other people, and needs energy for you.”
– Kate Hudson, Actress
Both stars reacted humbly to their public recognition and shared praise, reflecting the warmth and generosity for which they are known in Hollywood. Jackman’s and Hudson’s collaboration was lauded not only by the Gotham Film & Media Institute but also by their fellow cast members during the press tour and awards season.
Hudson addressed speculation about possible Oscar outcomes with a characteristically grounded attitude.
“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.”
– Kate Hudson, Actress
Despite her experience in musical dramas, including a role in the film Nine, Hudson’s performance in Song Sung Blue stands out for its depth, further validated by Jackman’s sincere praise and the ensemble’s overall achievement.
Anticipated Release and Final Thoughts
Song Sung Blue is set for a theatrical release in the United States on Christmas Day. The film is poised to attract music fans, followers of both Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, and anyone eager for a story powered by heartfelt performances. With the recognition at the Gotham Film Awards and potential Academy Award attention, the movie promises to have a significant cultural impact and reinforce the strengths of its stars and supporting cast. As the release approaches, excitement continues to build around the Hugh Jackman Song Sung Blue partnership, the real-life tribute act it honors, and the artistry the entire team brings to the screen.
