Hugh Jackman’s latest film, Song Sung Blue, has sparked controversy after its release, with the family of the real-life figure he portrays expressing serious objections to the film’s content and depiction. The movie, which recently debuted in theaters, stars Jackman as Neil Diamond tribute performer Mike Sardina, but members of Sardina’s family claim they were misrepresented and mistreated during the film’s production.
Family Members Speak Out About Their Disapproval
Michael Sardina Jr., son of the late Mike Sardina, voiced strong disapproval in an interview, taking issue with how both his father and stepmother, Claire Sardina, were shown on screen. Sardina Jr. stated that the depiction would have greatly upset his father. He told the Daily Mail that his father would be
“rolling in his grave right now.”
Michael Sardina Jr., Son
Additionally, Sardina Jr. and his sister, Angelina Sardina, served as consultants for Song Sung Blue. However, they claim they received minimal compensation for their contributions, which they believed severely undervalued their personal connection and involvement in the story.
Portrayal and Inclusion Concerns Highlighted by the Sardinas
The movie features King Princess as Angelina, but Mike Sardina Jr. alleged that his own relationship with his father was intentionally omitted from the storyline. According to the family, neither sibling had any contact with the main cast, including Hugh Jackman or Kate Hudson, throughout filming—a point further emphasized by their lack of communication with any cast members during production and preparation.
Despite their limited involvement, the family received invitations to the film’s New York City premiere, held on December 11, 2025. Stepmother Claire Sardina and her daughters, Dayna and Rachel Cartwright, also attended, as did Claire’s other children, who appear in the movie. The film’s exclusion of Mike Jr. from both its narrative and press materials has been a focal point of his criticism, especially after his brief introduction to Hudson at the premiere. Sardina Jr. has even described the film’s stars as “monsters” during interviews, citing disrespect toward both himself and his late father.
Family’s Efforts to Share Their Truth
Sardina Jr. remains determined to tell his family’s side of the story to the public, stating his intention to hold NBCUniversal and those involved in Song Sung Blue accountable for, what he considers, unfair treatment during the filmmaking process. He insists that the portrayal of his relationship with his father was essential and deserved a place in the project’s story.
Conversely, Claire Sardina has spoken favorably about the film and about Kate Hudson’s performance as herself. Hudson has credited a 2008 documentary about Claire and Mike Sardina as an influence on how she approached the role, suggesting a division within the family regarding the accuracy and merit of the film’s representation.
Implications for Film and Family
As Hugh Jackman’s Song Sung Blue continues its theatrical run, the objections raised by the Sardina family highlight ongoing tensions between filmmakers and the families of real-life figures. The situation raises questions about artistic license, the responsibilities of studios such as NBCUniversal, and the lasting effects these portrayals can have on the families involved. What happens next may depend on further statements from those involved and the public’s reaction to both the film and the family’s public criticisms.
