Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson are facing backlash from the real-life son of the main character in their new movie, Song Sung Blue, who has called the actors “monsters.”
In the Craig Brewer-directed film, Jackman and Hudson portray Neil Diamond tribute band performers Mike and Claire Sardina. But Mike Sardina Jr., 41—the son of Mike and stepson of Claire—accuses the movie of tarnishing his father’s legacy.
“My father’s rolling in his grave right now,” Mike Jr. told the Daily Mail Monday, adding that the film “completely destroyed the one thing my father worked his entire life to pass on—his legacy.” Mike Sardina passed away in 2006 at the age of 55.
Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman star in Song Sung Blue.
Mike Sardina Jr., who is not depicted in the film, claimed he was “purposely cut out of the movie” and received only “a pathetic $30,000” for serving as a consultant.
His sister, Angelina Sardina—Mike’s other child from a previous marriage—was portrayed in the film by King Princess. She also voiced her frustrations with the project.
“I didn’t have any contact with King Princess, who played me,” Angelina told the Daily Mail, saying she was also paid the same $30,000 consultant fee.
Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman attended the Song Sung Blue premiere in New York City on Dec. 11.
Both Mike Sardina Jr. and his sister Angelina said they had no contact with the cast during production, including Jackman and Hudson.
“Every interview that those monsters have been on national television don’t even mention my existence at all, even though I was the most prevalent force in my father’s life, even when I wasn’t in Wisconsin, because I’m his only son,” Mike Jr. told the Daily Mail.
“They didn’t even try to contact me… They didn’t try to get more information… They could have very easily asked Craig [Brewer],” he added.
Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson star in Song Sung Blue.
Despite the tensions, Mike Sardina Jr. and his sister Angelina attended the film’s New York City premiere on Dec. 11, along with Claire, 64, and her two daughters from a previous relationship—both of whom are portrayed in the movie.
Mike Jr. said he “walked right up to Kate Hudson, introduced myself” at the premiere, despite reportedly being warned to “keep away from any of the stars and reporters” during the event.
Kate Hudson with Claire Sardina at the Song Sung Blue premiere in New York City on Dec. 11.
Claire Sardina at the Song Sung Blue premiere in Milwaukee on Dec. 2.
After watching the film, Mike Sardina Jr. and his sister Angelina expressed disappointment with how their father’s life was depicted.
“The only thing that was true is the love between my dad and Claire,” Angelina said.
Craig Brewer, Claire Sardina, Rachel Cartwright, and Hugh Jackman at the Song Sung Blue premiere.
Meanwhile, Mike Sardina Jr. said he is considering legal action against the production companies involved, including NBCUniversal.
“I want the true story out there and I want it used with truth, with dignity, and I want retribution,” he said. “I want retribution from NBCUniversal [and other parties involved], not just for me, for my father, for me, and for my little sister—my father’s true descendants because they screwed us over.”
Mike Sardina and Claire Sardina.
The Post has reached out to representatives for Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson for comment.
Song Sung Blue, inspired by Greg Kohs’ 2008 documentary, follows the love story of Mike and Claire Sardina as well as their journey performing in the Neil Diamond tribute band, Lightning & Thunder.
Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman star in Song Sung Blue.
Hudson earned a 2026 Golden Globe nomination for her performance as Claire.
The film also features Michael Imperioli, Fisher Stevens, Jim Belushi, and Ella Anderson.
Song Sung Blue is currently in theaters.
