Kate Hudson’s surprise Oscar nomination for Best Actress in “Song Sung Blue” brought an emotional moment to her Los Angeles home, waking her 7-year-old daughter Rani Rose in the middle of the night. The nomination, announced on Thursday, January 22, 2026, marked Hudson’s second career Academy Award recognition, her first since 2000’s “Almost Famous.”
Hudson portrayed Claire Sardina, one-half of the Neil Diamond tribute band Lightning & Thunder, alongside Hugh Jackman, who plays her on-screen husband Mike Sardina. The film is based on the true story of a Milwaukee-area band that rose to regional fame despite emotional hardships.
Speaking to USA TODAY, Hudson described the early morning scene: “My alarm went off, and I put on the TV, and my daughter was like, ‘What is happening?’ She was not having it. She was like ‘Mom!’ ” She recalled telling her daughter, “Honey, This represents important,” before Rani Rose saw her emotional reaction and connected it to the nomination.
“Then she saw my name and saw that I was getting very emotional, and it hit her,” Hudson said. “And she was finally like, ‘Oh, my God, Mommy!’ And I said, ‘Yes, honey, I just got nominated for an Oscar.’ “
The nomination came as a surprise to many, with awards site Gold Derby listing Hudson as a long shot at 17-to-1 odds prior to the announcement. Despite the long odds, Hudson expressed being “thrilled, excited and grateful” for the recognition.
Hudson noted that Rani Rose initially reacted to news of the song “Golden” from “KPop Demon Hunters” being nominated, but her focus shifted once she understood it was her mother’s achievement. The moment highlighted the personal significance of the nomination beyond the accolade itself.
This recognition places Hudson among the contenders for the 2026 Best Actress Oscar, with the ceremony scheduled for later in the year. Her performance in “Song Sung Blue” has been praised for its authenticity in portraying the real-life musicians behind the Neil Diamond tribute act.
As Hudson continues to promote the film ahead of the Oscars, she remains focused on the journey rather than the outcome, emphasizing the gratitude she feels for the nomination itself after a 26-year gap between Academy Award recognitions.
The story of Hudson’s nomination and her daughter’s reaction serves as a reminder of the human moments behind Hollywood’s biggest honors, showing how professional achievements can create meaningful family connections across generations.
For ongoing updates on the 2026 Oscar race and Hudson’s campaign, followers can check official Academy channels and trusted entertainment news outlets as the ceremony approaches.
