Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman Face Backlash from Son of Song Sung Blue Musician Over Film’s Claims
Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson.
Credit :
Kristina Bumphrey/WWD via Getty; Mike Coppola/Getty
In the wake of critical acclaim for their latest film, "Song Sung Blue," starring Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman, controversy has emerged surrounding the portrayal of real-life performers Claire "Thunder" and Mike "Lightning" Sardina. Michael Sardina Jr., the son of Mike Sardina, has expressed outrage, claiming that the film tarnishes his father’s "legacy."
The film narrates the story of Claire and Mike Sardina, who famously performed in a Neil Diamond tribute band called “Lightning & Thunder.” Their journey was previously highlighted in a 2008 documentary, leading to its adaptation in the December 2025 film directed by Craig Brewer.
In a recent interview with the Daily Mail, Michael Jr. asserted that his father would be "rolling in his grave right now" at how he is depicted. "Everybody thinks it’s such a wonderful film, it’s so touching. It’s all lies," he stated, lamenting that the film misrepresents the hard work his father dedicated to his craft.
Michael Jr. and his sister, Angelina Sardina, became step-siblings to Claire’s children when Claire married Mike in 1994. Mike passed away in 2006, two years before the couple’s achievements were documented.
Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman as the Sardinas in Song Sung Blue.
Focus Features
Claire Sardina has publicly endorsed the film, attending its premiere in Milwaukee on December 2, alongside her daughter Rachel. She participated in the film’s introduction with Jackman and director Craig Brewer. The following day, she joined Jackman in performing “Sweet Caroline” at a local venue. Claire also attended the film’s New York premiere on December 11 with Hudson and her children.
Michael Jr. claimed that he and his sister, Angelina, were engaged as consultants for the film but allege they were "purposely cut out." Text conversations reviewed by Daily Mail indicate financial compensation for their consultation, and reportedly, Angelina’s contract allowed for the fictionalization of her character, as portrayed by King Princess in the film.
While Michael Jr. was not featured in the film, he expressed his frustration regarding its portrayal of the Sardinas’ family dynamics. "The only thing that was true is the love between my dad and Claire," Angelina stated, emphasizing the inaccuracies in the film’s depiction.
Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman as the Sardinas in Song Sung Blue.
Courtesy of Focus Features
Michael Jr. expressed a desire for greater authenticity in the film, asserting that it undermined his father’s legacy. "I want the true story out there and I want it used with truth, with dignity, and I want retribution," he said.
As of now, representatives for Jackman, Hudson, and Brewer have yet to comment on the controversy surrounding the film.
