Thescreescore – Hugh Jackman’s latest cinematic endeavor, "Song Sung Blue," which sees him embody the persona of Neil Diamond tribute artist Mike Sardina, has ignited a fierce family dispute, drawing sharp criticism from the real-life son of the character depicted. Michael Sardina Jr. has publicly denounced the film, asserting that its portrayal of his late father and stepmother, Claire Sardina, is both inaccurate and deeply disrespectful, claiming his father would be "rolling in his grave right now."
The controversy stems from Sardina Jr.’s allegations, as reported by the Daily Mail, regarding the creative liberties taken in the biographical drama. He revealed that he and his sister, Angelina Sardina, received what he described as a "relatively small payment" for their roles as consultants on the project, a sum he deemed inadequate given their intimate connection to the narrative and the expected level of their involvement.
A significant point of contention for Sardina Jr. is his conspicuous absence from the film’s storyline. While Angelina’s character is brought to life by King Princess, Michael Jr. claims his own substantial relationship with his father was deliberately omitted from the screenplay. Furthermore, he stated that neither he nor his sister had any direct communication with the film’s lead actors, including Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, or any other cast members during the entire production phase.
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Despite this lack of engagement during filming, both siblings, alongside their stepmother Claire and her daughters Dayna and Rachel Cartwright (who are also featured in the movie), were extended invitations to the film’s New York City premiere on December 11, 2025. It was at this event that Sardina Jr. briefly introduced himself to Hudson, later expressing his profound disappointment and labeling the film’s stars as "monsters" for allegedly excluding his narrative from promotional interviews. He emphasized the profound significance of his bond with his father, arguing that its absence from both the film and its marketing materials constitutes a grave insult to his family’s legacy.
Michael Sardina Jr. has declared his resolute intention to present what he considers the complete and truthful account of his family’s story to the public. He also affirmed his commitment to holding NBCUniversal and all parties involved in the film accountable for what he perceives as unfair treatment of his family throughout the production process.
In stark contrast to Sardina Jr.’s condemnation, Claire Sardina, the stepmother, has voiced positive sentiments about "Song Sung Blue" and Kate Hudson’s performance in particular. Hudson previously indicated that her portrayal was significantly informed by a 2008 documentary centered on the couple, suggesting a different perspective on the film’s authenticity.
"Song Sung Blue," directed and written by Craig Brewer, with Greg Kohs, John Davis, and John Fox serving as producers, is currently playing in theaters, having been released on December 25, 2025, with a runtime of 133 minutes. The unfolding family drama surrounding its release adds a complex layer to its reception, prompting questions about the ethical responsibilities inherent in adapting real-life stories for the silver screen.
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