EMOTIONAL PHONE CALL: Neil Diamond Was In Tears After Watching “Song Sung Blue” — Leading To An Unforgettable Night With Hugh Jackman
Few artists have touched as many lives as Neil Diamond. For more than six decades, his songs have provided the soundtrack to countless memories, connecting generations through timeless classics such as “Sweet Caroline,” “Song Sung Blue,” “Cracklin’ Rosie,” and “I Am… I Said.”
But in late 2025, it was Neil Diamond himself who found himself deeply moved.
According to actor Hugh Jackman, an emotional phone call from the legendary singer led to one of the most memorable experiences of his life—a visit to Diamond’s Colorado home that included stories, music, karaoke, and even an overnight stay.
The touching story began after Neil Diamond watched Song Sung Blue, the film inspired by the true story of Lightning & Thunder, a husband-and-wife Neil Diamond tribute act portrayed by Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson.
The movie held special significance for Diamond.
For the first time in his career, he had granted filmmakers extensive access to his music catalog, believing deeply in the story being told. According to Jackman, the film’s message and emotional impact resonated strongly with both Neil and his wife, Katie McNeil.
Shortly after seeing the film, Neil personally called Jackman.
What happened next surprised everyone.
Jackman later revealed that Diamond became overwhelmed with emotion during the conversation and was reportedly crying as he described how much the film meant to him. The actor said the movie touched both Neil and Katie deeply, especially because it celebrated the power of music, love, and perseverance—themes that have long been central to Neil’s own life and career.
For Hugh Jackman, the opportunity was too good to pass up.
During the call, he jokingly invited himself to Neil’s home in Colorado for tea.
To his surprise, Neil said yes.
The invitation quickly evolved into something even more memorable.
When Neil mentioned that he lived in Colorado, Jackman immediately agreed to travel there. Before long, the conversation turned into an invitation to stay overnight.
As Jackman later joked, he had somehow managed to turn a simple phone call into a sleepover with one of his musical heroes.
Meanwhile, Kate Hudson had already enjoyed her own visit with Diamond.
Having grown up in Colorado, Hudson was surprised to learn that she had lived only minutes away from Neil for years without ever meeting him. After hearing how much he enjoyed the film, she arranged a visit to his home, where the two spent time sharing stories and reflecting on their experiences.
Her visit inspired Jackman to make the trip himself.
Once at Diamond’s home, the evening became a celebration of music and friendship.
One of the highlights was an impromptu karaoke session.
According to Jackman, Neil performed several songs throughout the evening, including “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and, naturally, “Sweet Caroline.”
Perhaps the most amusing moment came when Neil unexpectedly began singing “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Misérables.
Jackman, who famously starred in the film adaptation of Les Misérables, asked Neil why he chose that song.
Diamond reportedly replied that he simply loved the melody and thought it was beautiful.
Jackman jokingly suggested that Neil may not have even realized he was singing a song connected to one of the actor’s most famous film roles.
The story reveals a side of Neil Diamond that fans have always cherished.
Despite decades of fame and countless accolades, he remains deeply connected to music and genuinely appreciative of projects that honor his legacy. Even after retiring from touring following his Parkinson’s diagnosis, Neil continues to share his love of music with family, friends, and those who have been inspired by his extraordinary career.
The timing of the story also feels especially meaningful.
As new generations discover Neil Diamond’s music through films, documentaries, and stage productions such as A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, moments like this remind fans that the man behind the songs remains just as passionate about music as ever.
For Hugh Jackman, it became an unforgettable evening.
For Neil Diamond, it was a chance to celebrate a story that touched his heart.
And for fans, it offered a rare glimpse into a private and deeply human moment involving one of music’s most beloved legends.
Sometimes the most beautiful songs are not the ones recorded in a studio.
Sometimes they are the memories created around a dinner table, shared among friends, and sung late into the night by people whose lives have been forever connected through music.