The release of the biographical drama Song Sung Blue has ignited controversy, particularly from the family of the late musician whose life inspired the film. Michael Sardina Jr., son of the real-life performer Mike Sardina, has publicly criticized stars Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson for their roles and accused the production of misrepresenting his father’s legacy.
Directed by Craig Brewer, Song Sung Blue portrays the story of Milwaukee-based tribute performers Mike “Lightning” Sardina and Claire “Thunder” Sardina, with Jackman and Hudson in the lead roles. Despite the film receiving acclaim from both critics and audiences, Sardina Jr. claims the depiction diverges significantly from reality.
“My father’s rolling in his grave right now,” Sardina Jr. expressed in an interview with the Daily Mail. He asserted that the film “completely destroyed the one thing my father worked his entire life to pass on — his legacy.” His frustration extends to his exclusion from the film’s narrative, despite being his father’s only son.
Sardina Jr. noted that while he and his sister Angelina were credited as consultants, he received what he described as a “pathetic” fee of $30,000. He also raised concerns about his invitation to the film’s premiere in New York City, claiming it came with restrictions that prevented him from interacting with the cast and media.
Adding to the family’s discontent, he criticized both Jackman and Hudson for neglecting to mention him during their promotional appearances. “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,” he said, highlighting his feelings of being sidelined.
Angelina Sardina, who is portrayed in the film by King Princess, echoed her brother’s sentiments. “The only thing that was true is the love between my dad and Claire. It’s a beautiful story, but that’s not how it went down. And I guess that’s what’s upsetting because it’s a lie,” she stated, reinforcing the family’s concerns about the film’s accuracy.
As Song Sung Blue continues to draw audiences, the Sardina family’s objections raise important questions about representation and legacy in biographical storytelling.
