Kate Hudson’s performance of Song Sung Blue has sparked mixed reactions ahead of the 2026 Oscars. The musical drama centers on Wisconsin couple Claire and Mike Sardina, the founders of the Neil Diamond tribute band Lightning & Thunder.
While Hudson’s portrayal of Claire earned her a Best Actress nomination at the 2026 Oscars, one member of the Sardina family has been openly critical of the project.
Hudson doesn’t seem to have any regrets about taking on the role, calling the project a rewarding experience.
“This family has been through it. But playing a part like that is a thrill for an actor,” she said on a January 2026 episode of The Awardist podcast. “That’s kind of why we love the challenge of getting inside characters that are so full, that bring so much for us to tackle. There are certain versions of it that you get, but this one was like, wow you get to run the spectrum.”
Keep reading to learn more about the controversy surrounding Song Sung Blue.
What Does Mike and Claire Sardina’s Family Think of ‘Song Sung Blue’?Kate Hudson as Claire Sardina, Hugh Jackman as Mike Sardina Focus Features / Courtesy Everett Collection
In a December 2025 interview with the Daily Mail, Mike and Claire Sardina’s son, Michael Sardina Jr., spoke out against Song Sung Blue.
“My father’s rolling in his grave right now,” he claimed. “[They] completely destroyed the one thing my father worked his entire life to pass on his legacy.”
Michael claimed his existence was “purposely cut out of the film” and said he was paid a “pathetic” $30,000 to serve as a consultant.
Mike and Claire’s son also expressed disappointment that Hudson and Hugh Jackman who plays Mike Sardina in the film allegedly didn’t contact him prior or during the making of the film.
“Every interview that those monsters have been on national television don’t even mention my existence at all,” he also alleged to the Daily Mail. “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.”
What Does Kate Hudson Think About the Sardina Family’s Comments?
In a January 2026 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Hudson addressed the criticism from one member of the Sardina family.
“Honestly, I don’t even know out of respect for our filmmakers, I’m not the right person to speak to it,” she explained. She went on to share her perspective on Claire Sardina, saying, “I’m so happy that I got to know Claire, who’s such a wonderful woman, and she’s so happy with the movie.”
Leave a Reply