The upcoming biographical romance Song Sung Blue, starring Hollywood A-listers Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, has been plunged into controversy even before its release. The film is now at the center of a bitter public dispute with the real-life family of its main subject, Mike Sardina.
Son Calls Actors 'Monsters,' Alleges Legacy Destroyed
In a scathing interview with the Daily Mail, Mike Sardina Jr., the 41-year-old son of the film's protagonist, launched a fierce attack on the production and its stars. He labeled Jackman and Hudson as "monsters" and accused the film of destroying his father's legacy. The movie, which portrays the love story of Mike and Claire Sardina as Neil Diamond tribute performers in the band Lightning & Thunder, is based on Greg Kohs' 2008 documentary.
Sardina Jr.'s primary grievance is his exclusion from the creative process. He revealed that despite serving as a consultant, he was compensated a mere $30,000, which he described as "pathetic." He further claimed that neither he nor his sister were contacted by Jackman, Hudson, or the production team during the entire filming period.
"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," Sardina Jr. stated emotionally.
Family Demands Truth and Retribution
The emotional toll on the family is severe. Sardina Jr. believes his father would be appalled by the portrayal, saying, "My father's rolling in his grave right now." His demands are clear: he wants the true story told with dignity and is seeking retribution from NBCUniversal and other involved parties.
"I want the true story out there, and I want it used with truth, with dignity. I want retribution from NBCUniversal and other parties involved," he emphasized. This backlash places Jackman and Hudson in an uncomfortable and unexpected spotlight just as the film prepares for its debut.
A Stark Contrast and a Growing Industry Trend
The controversy presents a stark contrast to Hugh Jackman's recent public persona. Known for his openness, Jackman recently shared a lighthearted story about wetting himself on stage during a performance of Beauty and the Beast. This jovial image clashes sharply with the serious allegations now being made.
Industry observers note that such disputes are becoming increasingly common in Hollywood. When films dramatize real-life stories without the full participation or approval of the individuals or families involved, legal and ethical conflicts often arise. Legal experts suggest that families can seek damages or public acknowledgment if they feel their loved one's life has been misrepresented.
The controversy surrounding Song Sung Blue highlights the delicate balance filmmakers must strike between artistic license and factual integrity, especially when dealing with sensitive biographical material that affects living relatives.
