Hugh Jackman is taking center stage again, blending his acting prowess with his Hugh Jackman singing career in the new film “Song Sung Blue,” which debuts on December 25. The movie, inspired by real events, features Jackman and Kate Hudson as struggling musicians who form a Neil Diamond tribute band, exploring themes of love, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams.
This musical drama stands out because both Jackman and Hudson perform well-known Neil Diamond hits themselves—and they did so by singing live during filming. Their commitment to authentic performances brings a fresh energy to the movie’s many music scenes.
Authentic Live Performances Set the Stage
Fans might wonder if the vocal performances in “Song Sung Blue” are the actors’ own. Confirming enthusiasts’ hopes, Hugh Jackman and his co-star indeed sang live for their roles, adding a genuine touch to every performance on screen.
“We sang live too, because, you know, obviously this is a movie with music, not a musical. So all the performances are somewhere on stage. And it had to feel like they’re really in a pub. I just love it when you laugh in the middle of a song, and obviously we hadn’t recorded, [Craig Brewer, director] was using both, he was cherry picking,”
— Hugh Jackman, Actor, in a conversation with Kate Hudson for Collider.
The approach required the cast to perform songs naturally, capturing unfiltered moments and the vibrant energy of real live acts, according to director Craig Brewer.
From Musicals to Major Motion Pictures: Jackman’s Musical Journey
Hugh Jackman’s singing journey dates back to his early days in theater, where he performed iconic musical roles. Reflecting on his background, Jackman discusses how his entry to the stage led to his growth as a singer and as an actor.
“My first job in a musical was Beauty and the Beast. I played Gaston, I was 26, and in my contract, they were paying for me to have a singing lesson because I had never had a singing lesson in my life. I really learned singing on the job,”
— Hugh Jackman, Actor, to Billboard.
He credits singing with helping him unlock new aspects of acting and connecting more deeply with his characters.
“Having said that, I always thought of myself as an actor, but my breakthrough as an actor happened in the second year of a three-year acting course, and it was while I was singing a song. I was doing ‘Anthem’ from Chess, and my acting teacher kept saying to me, ‘I feel like you’re standing outside your character, you’re just outside.’ I didn’t really know what he meant. But as I started singing that song, it was through song that I understood acting. I really connected with the lyrics. That’s when I understood the power of it, and it’s been such an incredible journey. Oklahoma, Carousel, whatever it is that I’ve done — I’ve always felt connected to it as an actor but somehow felt free through the singing of it.”
— Hugh Jackman, Actor.
A Career Highlighted by Stage and Soundtrack Success
Beyond “Song Sung Blue,” Jackman’s musical resume is extensive. In 2019, he launched his first global tour,
“The Man. The Music. The Show.,”
where he performed numbers from the
“The Greatest Showman: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack”
as well as selections from Broadway and Hollywood musicals. His versatility stood out at each performance, reinforcing his place as both a film star and accomplished live entertainer.
Jackman’s accolades include winning the Tony Award for Lead Actor in a Musical in 2004, recognized for his portrayal of Peter Allen in “The Boy From Oz.” Although he does not have a solo album, many of his songs from “The Greatest Showman” became chart-topping hits, and he appeared on the soundtracks to “Happy Feet,” “Les Misérables,” and “Fly,” further underscoring his unique presence in film soundtracks inspired by real-life figures such as Eddie the Eagle.
Continued Influence in Film and Music
Jackman’s dedication to genuine performance—whether through singing live in a movie scene or committing to rigorous stage roles—demonstrates why he is considered one of the leading performers of his generation. His loving embrace of music, combined with his acting skills, allows audiences to experience the fullest expression of his talents.
With “Song Sung Blue,” Jackman continues to inspire both new fans and longtime followers, showing that the blend of live music and storytelling can create unforgettable cinematic moments. His journey, from theater roles like Gaston in “Beauty and the Beast” to world tours and acclaimed performances, reflects a dedication to his craft that promises further memorable achievements in film, stage, and music.
