Ella Anderson Develops Strong Appreciation for Neil Diamond’s Music Following Role in ‘Song Sung Blue’
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Ella Anderson, the talented actress, recently revealed her newfound admiration for the legendary musician Neil Diamond’s music. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the Song Sung Blue premiere during AFI Fest in Los Angeles, the 20-year-old star shared how her appreciation for Neil Diamond’s music deepened while working on the Craig Brewer-directed film.
The biographical drama, Song Sung Blue, narrates the real-life journey of Mike (portrayed by Hugh Jackman) and Claire Sardina (played by Kate Hudson), a couple from Milwaukee who struggled in the music industry and eventually formed the Neil Diamond tribute band Lightning & Thunder in the late ’80s. Anderson takes on the role of Rachel Cartwright, Claire’s daughter from her previous marriage.
Before filming Song Sung Blue, Anderson admitted that Neil Diamond’s music had not been part of her regular playlist. However, through the process of making the movie, she discovered a new appreciation for his work, recognising the power of his songs to unite audiences. Anderson expressed, “I have always loved the way that his music brings together a crowd, and in doing the film, I discovered a lot of great songs of his — and he certainly is on my playlist now.”
One of the aspects that captivated Anderson was the infectious nature of Diamond’s songs and the unique reinterpretations offered by Claire and Mike that captivated the Milwaukee community. Anderson shared insights into her preparation for the role of Rachel, highlighting the dedication and commitment of her co-stars, Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, in embodying their characters. She emphasised the collaborative spirit that brought the film together, with all three leads fully investing in their roles.
Throughout her time on set, Anderson absorbed valuable lessons from observing Hudson and Jackman’s performances, acknowledging their professionalism and dedication to their craft. She praised Hudson’s nurturing approach and Jackman’s transformative portrayal, affirming that she learned a great deal from the seasoned actors.
Kate Hudson also reflected on her experience delving into Neil Diamond’s extensive music catalog for the film. The actress confessed that she was pleasantly surprised by the depth and breadth of Diamond’s musical legacy, appreciating the impact of his lesser-known yet soul-stirring compositions. Hudson shared her admiration for Diamond’s ability to connect people through his music, describing their interactions as a “real dream” and highlighting his profound influence on uniting audiences through his songs.
As Hudson and Anderson delve into the nuances of their characters and the transformative power of Neil Diamond’s music, the anticipation for Song Sung Blue’s theatrical release on December 25 continues to build. The film promises to reignite audiences’ appreciation for Neil Diamond’s timeless melodies and serve as a tribute to the enduring legacy of his musical contributions.
In a world where music has the power to transcend boundaries and unite hearts, Song Sung Blue stands as a testament to the profound impact of artistry and storytelling. Through the lens of the Sardina family’s musical journey, viewers are invited to rediscover the magic of Neil Diamond’s music and embrace the enduring power of creativity and connection found within his songs.