Kate Hudson is once again in the spotlight, twenty-five years after her first Oscar nomination for “Almost Famous.” This time, she has received a nomination for her compelling portrayal of Claire Sardina, a Milwaukee hairdresser who unexpectedly becomes a Neil Diamond tribute performer in the film “Song Sung Blue.” Reflecting on this milestone, Hudson likens the experience to having her third child, emphasizing how she appreciates the journey differently now.
Hudson’s journey into this role began when co-star Hugh Jackman saw her performing and discussing music on CBS’ “Sunday Morning.” Impressed, he recommended her to director Craig Brewer. Upon reading the script, Hudson felt an instant connection and was eager to join the project. She expressed her excitement about the character, noting the rarity of roles that encompass various dimensions often lacking for women in film. “I got to play the comedy, some sense of humor. I got to play the love story, the desire. I got to play being a mother, and then I got to go into a place of where my life force is taken out of me,” she said.
An exciting aspect of this role is Hudson’s ability to sing, something she had aspired to do as a recording artist but hesitated to pursue due to concerns about potentially sidetracking her acting career. The pandemic shifted her perspective, prompting her to start writing her debut album, “Glorious.” With her Oscar nomination on the horizon, Hudson reflects on the connection she shares with her mother, Goldie Hawn, who won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 1970 for “Cactus Flower.” “How lucky am I that I got to really share that experience with her in that way?” Hudson remarked.
During an interview, Hudson opened up about her character Claire’s longing for love, family, and community. She highlighted the importance of honoring Claire’s story, as it resonated with her own emotional experiences. Hudson also shared how the COVID pandemic served as a catalyst for her music career, as it made her reconsider her creative output and regret the absence of her music in her life.
Reflecting on her iconic film “Almost Famous,” Hudson recalled the profound experience of working with the talented Cameron Crowe, who infused the project with his personal story. She reminisced about the camaraderie developed during the lengthy shoot and the immersive preparation that included rock school.
In discussing the rom-com genre, Hudson expressed her belief that many recent entries have become simplistic. She noted that successful romantic comedies are often approached with the same caliber of care as critically acclaimed films, allowing for compelling storytelling that resonates with audiences. Hudson champions the need to invest in well-crafted narratives that evoke genuine emotion and connection.
As Kate Hudson navigates this exciting chapter in her career, her experiences reflect a journey marked by growth, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling in film and music.