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Brewer Says Studios Initially Rejected ‘Song Sung Blue’ Over Perceptions of Its Midwestern Subjects

Hudson highlights her on-set meeting with Claire Sardina, emphasizing the preparation behind her Golden Globe–nominated turn.

Overview

  • Director Craig Brewer said multiple studios passed after arguing audiences would not "like these people" because of how the real-life couple was living.
  • Brewer credited Focus Features and Universal for ultimately backing and releasing the film, which is currently in theaters.
  • Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman portray Claire and Mike Sardina, the Milwaukee Neil Diamond tribute duo known as Lightning & Thunder.
  • Hudson said she met Claire on set and gained about 15 pounds to embody the character, stepping away from her usual routines.
  • Hudson’s performance earned her a third Golden Globe nomination, and she noted that Jackman personally urged Brewer to cast her.