Neil Diamond Makes a Surprise FaceTime Appearance at “Song Sung Blue” AFI Fest Premiere
The legendary Neil Diamond, though physically absent from the red carpet at the AFI Fest premiere of “Song Sung Blue”, made a heartwarming appearance via FaceTime, bridging the distance between himself and the star-studded cast of the new film inspired by his music.
At 84 years old, the “Sweet Caroline” crooner remains an enduring figure in American music—and on this special night, his presence was deeply felt.
Kate Hudson, Hugh Jackman, and Craig Brewer Lead a Tribute to Diamond
The premiere of “Song Sung Blue”, a Focus Features release, brought together an ensemble cast led by Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman, who portray Claire and Mike Sardina, a real-life couple from Milwaukee whose shared love of Neil Diamond inspired them to form the tribute act Lightning and Thunder in the 1990s.
Before the film’s screening, Hudson, Jackman, and director Craig Brewer gathered on the red carpet with Diamond’s wife, Katie McNeil Diamond, who then FaceTimed Neil Diamond so the group could speak directly with him. Photos captured the emotional moment as Hudson beamed with joy while holding the phone, sharing a few tender words with the man who inspired the entire project.
“What a privilege! Getting to know Neil and Katie has been really something special for me,” said Hudson after the call. “I wish he could be here.”
“It’s a Dream Come True,” Says Director Brewer
Brewer, known for his emotionally charged and music-rich storytelling, poured his heart into telling the Sardinas’ journey. But the highest praise came from Diamond himself.
“When I heard that Neil was watching the movie, I thought to myself, ‘This is really the only audience I care about,’” Brewer shared. “His music means so much to me… my hope is that all the people who love his music will love it too.”
An Ensemble Cast Anchored in Musical Passion
Alongside Hudson and Jackman, the film features Jim Belushi, Fisher Stevens, Ella Anderson, Mustafa Shakir, and Hudson Hensley—each with a personal connection to Neil Diamond’s music.
Belushi, who spent years performing as part of The Blues Brothers, reflected:
“I’ve always appreciated Neil Diamond for his simplicity of language and how quickly he could get to the heart.”
Stevens added a humorous note, recalling that he once shared a name with an Australian Neil Diamond impersonator and would often get mistaken calls for performances.
A Film About Dreams, Love, and Resilience
At its core, “Song Sung Blue” is not just a tribute to Diamond—it’s a story about ordinary people with extraordinary dreams, unwavering love, and the healing power of music. The Sardinas’ journey through blended family struggles, financial setbacks, and emotional trials is elevated by the soundtrack of a generation: Neil Diamond’s timeless catalog.
“People who have a dream, and they don’t let people crush it… it’s very moving,” said Stevens. “These two characters, who they are, is so unique.”
“Tell Everyone I Love Them, and to Keep Singing”
As the crowd settled in for the closing night screening, Hugh Jackman took a moment to share Diamond’s message, delivered moments before on FaceTime:
“Tell everyone I love them… and to keep singing.”
In that simple, powerful line, the spirit of “Song Sung Blue” was summed up—an enduring reminder of joy, heartbreak, perseverance, and the eternal soundtrack of one man’s voice that continues to bring people together.
Neil Diamond may not have walked the red carpet that night, but his presence—his soul—was everywhere.