Exclusive Interview: Hudson Hensley Talks ‘Song Sung Blue,’ Working with Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman, and More

Hudson Hensley is quickly emerging as one of the industry’s most promising young talents, stepping into the spotlight with a role that feels as heartfelt as the story it tells. In Song Sung Blue, a tender, true-life celebration of love, resilience, and chasing dreams at any stage of life, Hudson brings a quiet sincerity that grounds the film’s emotional core.

That authenticity is amplified by the company he keeps, sharing the screen with Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman in a project that marks a major milestone in his young career. From navigating the responsibility of portraying a real person to soaking up lessons on set from two of the industry’s most beloved performers, this chapter represents a defining moment for Hensley—both personally and professionally.

Pop Culturalist caught up with him to talk about finding his path as a storyteller, stepping into his biggest role yet, and what he hopes audiences take away from Song Sung Blue.

PC: Song Sung Blue is a heartwarming true story that reminds us it’s never too late to chase your dreams. For you, when did you first realize you wanted to become a storyteller?
Hudson: I read a lot as a little kid—exciting stories and adventures. Then I saw Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible, and I thought, “Wow, I would love to do that!”

PC: When this audition came across your desk, what was it about the sides or the character that spoke to you?
Hudson: The sides called for some activity, and I used a prop, which was something new for me. But the fact that I would be playing the son of Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson is what lit my fire to give the best audition of my life. What an opportunity!

PC: Your character is based on a real person. How did that influence your preparation process, and did you feel a different sense of responsibility stepping into that role?
Hudson: Yes, portraying a real person is a serious thing. I was so lucky to meet the real Dayna and spend time with him. He is a great guy, and we became pals. We enjoyed seeing each other again at the NYC premiere.

PC: You got to work alongside Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman. What was it like collaborating with them, and what lessons did you take away from working so closely with them?
Hudson: What an honor it was for me, as a kid just starting out, to be cast alongside those two superstars! They were so kind to me—patient and willing to share advice. Their professionalism is something I will take away as a goal to work hard to instill in myself.

PC: This is your biggest role to date—what was the most surprising part of stepping into it, and is there a moment or scene you can’t wait for audiences to experience?
Hudson: One surprising thing for me was the number of people it takes to produce a movie. All the logistics—equipment, timing concerns, locations, wardrobe, hair and makeup, lighting, sound, etc.! All the preparation for the role was key for me. The dramatic scenes were emotionally consuming, and it took a few days for me to recover from the emotions I felt while shooting them. Since this is a true story, I want audiences to appreciate what the real family went through.

PC: This film has made its way around the festival circuit. What has it been like experiencing it with live audiences, and what do you hope viewers take away from it?
Hudson: It was fantastic to be in the audience when people saw it for the first time. I loved hearing the reactions—cheers, gasps, even sing-alongs. I hope they leave the theater with an uplifted heart from the courage, resilience, and love story that Song Sung Blue portrays.

To keep up with Hudson, follow him on Instagram. Song Sung Blue is out in theaters now.