Hugh Jackman injected humor into the 2025 Gotham Awards by directing a playful barb at Ryan Reynolds, keeping up their lighthearted rivalry for the audience gathered at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City on December 1. The moment unfolded during the presentation of the Gotham Musical Tribute, where Jackman and Kate Hudson were honored for their roles in the musical drama “Song Sung Blue,” spotlighting the continued camaraderie and friendly banter between the actors, with the Hugh Jackman Gotham Awards moment quickly drawing attention.
Jackman and Hudson Celebrate with Music and Banter
At the ceremony, Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson made a musical entrance to Neil Diamond’s iconic “Sweet Caroline,” setting an upbeat tone as they reached the stage. Hudson began by recognizing her collaborators, offering a nod to Jackman and director Craig Brewer, and reflecting on the role music has played in her life. She shared,
“one of the great joys of my career.”
– Kate Hudson, Actor. She continued to express the deep influence of music, stating,
“I don’t know where I’d be without it.”
– Kate Hudson, Actor.
With the microphone in hand, Jackman delivered his signature wit by referencing his ongoing good-natured feud with Reynolds, joking that the Gotham Musical Tribute was
“something to make Ryan Reynolds insanely jealous.”
– Hugh Jackman, Actor. He then shifted to the significance of the film, emphasizing its core themes as being about
“real people, real lives, real struggles, real love.”
– Hugh Jackman, Actor.
Jackman Praises Hudson’s Talent and Looks Ahead
Continuing his speech, Jackman offered high praise for Kate Hudson, describing her as
“not only one of the great stars of our business,”
– Hugh Jackman, Actor, and attributing her with being a “consummate actor.” He confidently predicted that Hudson’s performance could soon bring her Oscar recognition, underlining the powerful impact of the film and her role in it.
Background on “Song Sung Blue” and Gotham Awards
“Song Sung Blue” tells the story of Mike and Claire Sardina, a Neil Diamond tribute partnership known as Lightning & Thunder, portrayed by Jackman and Hudson. The film draws inspiration from Greg Kohs’ 2008 documentary and weaves the tale of devoted performers chasing their musical dreams. The Gotham Awards ceremony, attended by notable figures such as Hudson, Jackman, and director Craig Brewer, highlighted achievements in independent film, with the presentation reinforcing the deep connections fostered through music and storytelling.
What’s Next for Song Sung Blue and the Cast
With its theatrical release set for December 25, 2025, “Song Sung Blue” awaits audience reactions and further acclaim as it enters awards season. The presence of talents like Neil Diamond’s music, Kate Hudson, and Hugh Jackman, as well as the creative vision of Craig Brewer, are expected to resonate strongly with viewers. The recent celebration at Cipriani Wall Street hints at the possibility of even greater recognition and Oscar buzz on the horizon for the film and its cast. The story was reported by Namrata Ghosh for Mandatory and also covered by US Weekly.
