Actress Kate Hudson has opened up about what she considers the “biggest gift” of her nearly three-decade-long career in Hollywood. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the world premiere of her new biopic Song Sung Blue during AFI Fest in Los Angeles on October 26, 2025, Hudson reflected on the connections and creative collaborations that have shaped her journey since her debut in 1998.
The Actress and Her Career
Hudson, 46, made her big-screen debut in 1998 with the indie film Desert Blue, starring alongside Christina Ricci and Casey Affleck. Over the years, she has become one of Hollywood’s most recognizable faces, known for films like Almost Famous, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, and Bride Wars.
At the Song Sung Blue premiere, Hudson said that the most rewarding aspect of her career has been the relationships she’s built with other artists.
“The first thing that comes to mind is the people that I’ve met — the connections — they always feel like my biggest gifts,” she shared.
Her new project, Song Sung Blue, is inspired by the 2008 documentary of the same name. It follows the story of Mike and Claire Sardina, a couple who perform as a Neil Diamond tribute band called Lightning & Thunder. Hudson stars opposite Hugh Jackman in the biopic, directed by Craig Brewer.
Quotes and Reflections
Hudson described Song Sung Blue as the culmination of “everything” she’s learned in her nearly 30-year career.
“All I ever wanted to do was do musicals. This movie, even though it’s not technically a musical, allowed me to bring together everything I’ve studied and loved — acting, singing, and performance — in one film,” she said.
She also credited her character’s signature hairstyle for helping her get into the role:
“The second my hot rollers went in, I just felt like a completely different person.”
Hudson added that meeting Neil Diamond during production deepened her respect for his music.
“Neil has this magic — he brings people together. His songs make people happy, and there’s something so timeless about that,” she said.
Impact and Industry Context
Hudson’s return to the spotlight with Song Sung Blue marks a significant milestone in her career, blending dramatic storytelling with musical artistry. The film positions Hudson alongside Hugh Jackman in what’s expected to be a major awards-season contender.
Industry analysts predict that her performance could earn her another Oscar nomination, nearly 25 years after her iconic role in Almost Famous.
What’s Next
Song Sung Blue is scheduled for a nationwide theatrical release on December 25, 2025, distributed by Focus Features.
Hudson continues to expand her creative range, with upcoming projects including a return to television and a rumored music collaboration inspired by the Song Sung Blue soundtrack.
