Kate Hudson Remembers Flattering Letters from Daniel Day-Lewis During "Nine"
In a delightful revelation, Kate Hudson recently shared her fond memories of receiving heartfelt letters from Daniel Day-Lewis while filming the musical "Nine." During an episode of Entertainment Weekly’s Awardist podcast, Hudson recounted how Day-Lewis, fully immersed in his role as Italian film director Guido Contini, would pen her little love notes from his character’s perspective.
The Charm of Handwritten Notes
Hudson described the experience as enchanting, recalling how she would find these letters waiting for her in her dressing room. “I got letters,” she said, expressing her excitement at reading the flattering words crafted by Day-Lewis. “I’d show up to my dressing room with a letter from Guido Contini. And I’d read a flattering letter and I was like, ‘Ugh, this is so much fun.’ I loved Daniel Day-Lewis.” The actress still cherishes these notes, which she has kept to this day, a testament to the unique bond formed during the production.
A Dream Collaboration
Reflecting on the overall experience of working on "Nine," Hudson described it as a dream come true. With the renowned director Rob Marshall at the helm and Day-Lewis employing his Method acting techniques, the atmosphere on set was electric. “Oh, an experience,” she remarked, highlighting the creative synergy that made the project memorable.
The Story of "Nine"
Loosely based on the acclaimed musical of the same name, "Nine" follows the story of Guido Contini, portrayed by Day-Lewis, as he grapples with writer’s block while reminiscing about the significant women in his life. Hudson played Stephanie Necrophorus, a fashion journalist who captures Contini’s attention, adding depth to the film’s exploration of love, creativity, and the complexities of relationships.
A Star-Studded Cast
The film boasted an impressive ensemble cast, including Marion Cotillard, Penélope Cruz, Nicole Kidman, Judi Dench, Sophia Loren, and Fergie, among others. Each actress brought her unique flair to the project, contributing to its rich tapestry of characters and narratives.
Awards and Recognition
"Nine" received critical acclaim, earning four Academy Award nominations. Notably, Penélope Cruz was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role, while the film also garnered nominations for Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, and Best Original Song for the powerful track “Take It All.” The accolades underscored the film’s artistic achievements and the talent of its cast and crew.
Hudson’s Musical Journey
Beyond "Nine," Kate Hudson has continued to showcase her vocal talents, most recently in the film "Song Sung Blue." This biopic tells the story of real-life couple Mike and Claire Sardina, played by Hugh Jackman and Hudson, who performed as part of a Neil Diamond tribute act called "Lightning & Thunder." Hudson revealed that the vocals featured in the film were largely recorded live, adding authenticity to their performances.
The Connection with Co-Stars
In her conversation on The Awardist, Hudson expressed how she and Jackman connected deeply with their characters. “It felt like we were in our pocket, and that’s always a good feeling,” she shared. Their understanding of the characters’ motivations and the story’s emotional weight fueled their commitment to delivering a compelling performance.
Listen to the Podcast
For those interested in hearing more about Hudson’s experiences on "Nine" and her latest project, "Song Sung Blue," the full discussion is available on the podcast. Hudson’s reflections offer a glimpse into the world of filmmaking, the power of collaboration, and the lasting impact of heartfelt gestures like handwritten letters.

