Hugh Jackman recently got a gift that completely blew him away: a guitar signed by the legendary Neil Diamond. The 57-year-old actor, who stars in Song Sung Blue as part of a Diamond tribute band, shared the moment on Instagram, calling it “one of the most awesome gifts I’ve ever received.” The thoughtful gesture came as Diamond celebrated the release of the film, which features his music front and center.
What Neil Diamond gave Hugh Jackman after Song Sung Blue
The guitar, signed by Diamond himself, came with a sweet note: “Hugh, Keep rockin’! Your friend, Neil Diamond.” Jackman shared a video on Instagram showing his pure surprise and joy as he opened it, hugging the guitar and saying, “Oh my. That’s from Neil Diamond? Thank you, Neil.” In his post, he made it clear this wasn’t just a collectible but a meaningful gift, a symbol of respect and friendship between the two stars that he plans to treasure forever.
Jackman plays Mike Sardina in the film, one half of Lightning and Thunder, a Neil Diamond tribute duo from the mid-1990s. The movie, inspired by a 2008 documentary, isn’t about Diamond himself but features his songs heavily, following Mike and his wife Claire as they perform his music.
Director Craig Brewer shared in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that Diamond loved the film. He cheered for every song, tapped his foot along to the music, and even got emotional and shed a few tears during some scenes.
Brewer noted that Diamond’s emotional reaction showed just how deeply he connects to his own songs. Brewer hopes Neil knows how important his songwriting is. Those songs, he lived them, felt them in his soul, and then brought them to life.
Beyond the guitar, Jackman and Diamond have built a genuine friendship. Jackman shared fun stories from a recent sleepover at Diamond’s Colorado home, complete with karaoke and laid-back chats (via PEOPLE). He recalled how Diamond gave the filmmakers full freedom to use his music and welcomed him into his home without hesitation.
Originally reported by Rishabh Shandilya on ComingSoon.
