Song Sung Blue Backlash: Why the Real-Life Family Called Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson 'Monsters'

"They're playing our parents, but they've never even spoken to us." The heartwarming tribute to Neil Diamond performers has turned into a legal battleground. Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson are facing fierce criticism from the children of the very people they portrayed in their new film, 'Song Sung Blue.'

Song Sung Blue Hugh Jackman Kate Hudson Backlash Explained

Directed by Craig Brewer, the movie follows the love story of tribute artists Mike and Claire Sardina. However, Mike’s son, Mike Sardina Jr., claims the production has deeply disrespected his family. In an explosive interview, he stated that his father is "rolling in his grave" because the film opted for a whitewashed Hollywood romance over the gritty, complicated reality of their lives.

The grievances are both financial and personal. Mike Jr. revealed he was paid only $30,000 to serve as a consultant despite being a central figure in his father’s life. His sister, Angelina, shared similar sentiments, noting that she had zero contact with the actress playing her, King Princess. Both siblings allege they were essentially erased or simplified to fit a more marketable narrative.

Premiere Cold Shoulder and Legal Threats

Tensions boiled over at the film's New York premiere on December 11, 2025. The siblings claimed they were told by organizers to stay away from the stars and reporters. Despite this, Mike Jr. approached Hudson directly, but he remains furious that neither star has acknowledged the family’s existence during the high-profile press tour.

Mike Jr. is now considering legal action against NBCUniversal, demanding retribution for what he calls the "lies" portrayed on screen. As of now, representatives for Jackman and Hudson have not commented on the accusations. The film remains a major awards contender, with Hudson recently securing a Golden Globe nomination for 2026.