Hudson Hensley On Best Young Actor Win And Starstruck Experience Filming ‘Song Sung Blue’

A star on the rise!

While you are starting to make your Christmas plans, may we suggest spending time with your friends and family watching the film ‘Song Sung Blue’, a star-studded film paying homage to Neil Diamond tribute band Lightning & Thunder. One performer within the movie that you need to look out for is rising actor Hudson Henley, playing the role of Dayna Cartwright.

We had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Hudson about performing in theatre, Stevie Wonder, and more!

Congratulations on your role in ‘Song Sung Blue’! What was your experience like filming the movie?

H: “Thank you so much! The only word to describe my experience is ‘surreal’. It is just so crazy that I get to do what I truly love at such a young age. Being around the amazing and experienced cast and crew was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that taught me so many things and helped me to create memories that I will cherish forever.” 

From Kate Hudson to its Director Craig Brewer, you worked alongside some iconic talents. Have you ever been starstruck before?

H: “Yes, I have been starstruck before! The first time I met Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman I literally froze for thirty seconds in awe! I also felt starstruck when I heard them sing together. They are both individually so talented, but together, they are a dynamic duo. Meeting Craig Brewer was also very special, because he is one of the best directors of all time. He provided me with valuable wisdom and encouragement.” 

‘Song Sung Blue’ spotlights the rise of a Neil Diamond tribute band, and the film itself is one big acknowledgement to Neil’s incredible music career. If you had to choose, what artist or band do you think deserves a film adaptation next?

H: “If I had to choose, I would say either Stevie Wonder or Billy Joel. Stevie Wonder’s music is so powerful and moving–and don’t even get me started on his lyrics. They are one of a kind! Even though Billy Joel has an amazing documentary that I have already watched more than five times, I think he deserves another one because he is such a musical talent and an amazing storyteller.” 

This movie comes out on Christmas Day! Are there any favorite traditions that you and your family have during the holiday season?

H: “Yes. My mom’s side of the family is Swedish, and in Sweden they celebrate Christmas Eve instead of Christmas Day. So, each Christmas Eve, my mom makes the best food and we get to open up our presents a day early.” 

Aside from your on-screen work, you also are well-experienced in theatre. Which do you enjoy the most, being on the big screen of being center stage?

H: “I really enjoy both. Being on the big screen is great because generally you are able to reach a larger audience, and when you are filming a movie, you can make improvements on the spot because it is not live. I love theater because on top of acting, I get to sing and dance. Also, because the performances are live, I am challenged to master my lines, lyrics, and choreography, which I love.”

At the coveted Los Angeles Film Awards this year, you won for Best Young Actor! What has been your reaction to your success and growing support?

H: “Winning Best Young Actor was such an honor, especially because it was for my first film. I am so grateful for all of the support of my family and friends. My parents have always supported my dream to become an actor, and now that my dream has come true, I cannot thank them enough. I couldn’t have asked for a better support system!”

Make sure to watch Hudson in ‘Song Sung Blue’, available in theatres Christmas Day!

Je’Kayla Crawford– Founder and Director– Je’Kayla has been a journalist for years and decided to start a publication of her own, New Scene Magazine, back in October 2020. When not helping her team and working on their print issues, you can find her watching a movie on Netflix or baking using a viral TikTok recipe.