Hugh Jackman recently received a gift that left him utterly speechless: a guitar signed by the legendary Neil Diamond. The 57-year-old actor, who stars in the upcoming film Song Sung Blue—a tribute to Diamond’s music—took to Instagram to express his excitement, calling it “one of the most awesome gifts I’ve ever received.” This thoughtful gesture came as Diamond celebrated the film’s release, which prominently features his iconic songs.
What Neil Diamond Gave Hugh Jackman After Song Sung Blue
The signed guitar was accompanied by a heartfelt note from Diamond himself: “Hugh, Keep rockin’! Your friend, Neil Diamond.” In a video shared on Instagram, Jackman’s genuine surprise and joy were palpable as he unwrapped the gift. He embraced the guitar, exclaiming, “Oh my. That’s from Neil Diamond? Thank you, Neil.” This moment transcended mere memorabilia; it symbolized a deep respect and budding friendship between the two stars, a treasure Jackman intends to cherish for years to come.
In Song Sung Blue, Jackman portrays Mike Sardina, one half of the tribute duo Lightning and Thunder, which gained popularity in the mid-1990s. The film, inspired by a 2008 documentary, doesn’t focus on Diamond himself but rather showcases his music as it follows Mike and his wife Claire on their journey performing his beloved songs. The film serves as a tribute to Diamond’s enduring legacy, allowing audiences to experience the emotional resonance of his music through the characters’ lives.
Director Craig Brewer shared insights into Diamond’s reaction to the film during an interview with Entertainment Weekly. He revealed that Diamond was visibly moved while watching, cheering for each song, tapping his foot along to the rhythm, and even shedding tears during poignant scenes. Brewer emphasized that Diamond’s emotional response highlighted the profound connection the artist has with his own work. He expressed hope that Diamond recognizes the significance of his songwriting, noting that those songs are not just creations but reflections of his lived experiences and emotions.
Beyond the signed guitar and the film, Jackman and Diamond have cultivated a genuine friendship. Jackman recounted delightful anecdotes from a recent sleepover at Diamond’s home in Colorado, which included karaoke sessions and relaxed conversations. This bond has grown stronger as Diamond welcomed Jackman and the filmmakers with open arms, granting them full creative freedom to use his music in the film. Such gestures illustrate not only Diamond’s generosity but also his commitment to supporting the arts and fostering connections with fellow artists.
As the release of Song Sung Blue approaches, the collaboration between Hugh Jackman and Neil Diamond continues to resonate, showcasing the power of music to forge friendships and inspire creativity. Jackman’s heartfelt gratitude for the signed guitar serves as a reminder of the meaningful connections that can arise in the world of entertainment, where talent and passion intertwine.
