Kate Hudson has responded after being labeled a “monster” by the real-life son of the musician at the center of Song Sung Blue.
Hudson, who portrays Claire Sardina opposite Hugh Jackman’s depiction of Mike Sardina in the true-story film about Neil Diamond cover band Lightning & Thunder, addressed criticisms leveled by Mike’s son, Michael Sardina Jr. Michael Jr. told the Daily Mail that the movie is “all lies” and claimed he was deliberately left out of the production, despite having been paid to advise on the project.
Hudson told The Hollywood Reporter that she doesn’t feel she’s the right person to judge or speak for the filmmakers. She added that, during the making of the film, she got to know the real Claire and found her to be “a wonderful woman” who is pleased with how the movie turned out.
While other members of the Sardina family — Michael Jr.’s sister Angelina and his step-siblings Rachel and Dayna — appear in the new dramatization, Michael Jr. is not featured in this film nor was he included in the 2008 documentary of the same name about his parents.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Michael Jr. said his late father, who passed away in 2006, would be upset by what he believes is a misrepresentation of his life. He criticized Hudson and Jackman for not contacting him to gather more information, calling their interviews on national television dismissive of his role. He told the outlet that the publicity for the film fails to acknowledge him, despite his view that he was a central figure in his father’s life.
Despite the controversy sparked by Michael Jr.’s comments, Hudson’s performance as Claire has become a focal point during this awards season. She earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy on Sunday and recently picked up a Best Actress nod from the Actor Awards.
Reflecting on the awards attention, Hudson told The Hollywood Reporter that the experience feels different now compared with earlier in her career. She noted that when you’re younger, acclaim can feel like a sudden, startling entrance into a new phase, whereas after 26 years in the industry — she was 19 when Almost Famous came out — the reception feels warmer and more profoundly encouraging. That positive response, she said, motivates her and energizes her about future projects.
Song Sung Blue is currently playing in theaters.
Hi, I’m Emily, a passionate and dedicated member of the Sherburne County Citizen team. With a keen eye for detail and a love for writing, I ensure that the latest celebrity news, major economic trends, and helpful tips for your home are presented in the most engaging and informative way possible. Fun fact: During a particularly exciting news story, I once managed to finish an article in record time, fueled solely by copious amounts of coffee and pure adrenaline!
