Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
The Unglamorous Reality Behind Movie Musical Magic
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
The Unglamorous Reality Behind Movie Musical Magic
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
What emerged was a masterclass in sustainable performance—and a shared belief that their work serves something far greater than personal glory.
The Unglamorous Reality Behind Movie Musical Magic
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
What emerged was a masterclass in sustainable performance—and a shared belief that their work serves something far greater than personal glory.
The Unglamorous Reality Behind Movie Musical Magic
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
In a recent conversation for Variety and CNN’s Actors on Actors, the two friends sat down to discuss their current films, revealing intimate details about their creative processes and the philosophy that keeps them grounded in Hollywood’s chaos.
What emerged was a masterclass in sustainable performance—and a shared belief that their work serves something far greater than personal glory.
The Unglamorous Reality Behind Movie Musical Magic
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
In a recent conversation for Variety and CNN’s Actors on Actors, the two friends sat down to discuss their current films, revealing intimate details about their creative processes and the philosophy that keeps them grounded in Hollywood’s chaos.
What emerged was a masterclass in sustainable performance—and a shared belief that their work serves something far greater than personal glory.
The Unglamorous Reality Behind Movie Musical Magic
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
The 57-year-old veteran of screen and stage is finally declaring his favorite genre is officially “back” after starring in biopic Song Sung Blue and watching Cynthia Erivo’s powerhouse performance in the two-part Wicked adaptation.
In a recent conversation for Variety and CNN’s Actors on Actors, the two friends sat down to discuss their current films, revealing intimate details about their creative processes and the philosophy that keeps them grounded in Hollywood’s chaos.
What emerged was a masterclass in sustainable performance—and a shared belief that their work serves something far greater than personal glory.
The Unglamorous Reality Behind Movie Musical Magic
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
The 57-year-old veteran of screen and stage is finally declaring his favorite genre is officially “back” after starring in biopic Song Sung Blue and watching Cynthia Erivo’s powerhouse performance in the two-part Wicked adaptation.
In a recent conversation for Variety and CNN’s Actors on Actors, the two friends sat down to discuss their current films, revealing intimate details about their creative processes and the philosophy that keeps them grounded in Hollywood’s chaos.
What emerged was a masterclass in sustainable performance—and a shared belief that their work serves something far greater than personal glory.
The Unglamorous Reality Behind Movie Musical Magic
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Hugh Jackman nervously whispers a simple mantra every time he settles in to watch a new movie musical: “Please be great. Please be great.”
The 57-year-old veteran of screen and stage is finally declaring his favorite genre is officially “back” after starring in biopic Song Sung Blue and watching Cynthia Erivo’s powerhouse performance in the two-part Wicked adaptation.
In a recent conversation for Variety and CNN’s Actors on Actors, the two friends sat down to discuss their current films, revealing intimate details about their creative processes and the philosophy that keeps them grounded in Hollywood’s chaos.
What emerged was a masterclass in sustainable performance—and a shared belief that their work serves something far greater than personal glory.
The Unglamorous Reality Behind Movie Musical Magic
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Hugh Jackman nervously whispers a simple mantra every time he settles in to watch a new movie musical: “Please be great. Please be great.”
The 57-year-old veteran of screen and stage is finally declaring his favorite genre is officially “back” after starring in biopic Song Sung Blue and watching Cynthia Erivo’s powerhouse performance in the two-part Wicked adaptation.
In a recent conversation for Variety and CNN’s Actors on Actors, the two friends sat down to discuss their current films, revealing intimate details about their creative processes and the philosophy that keeps them grounded in Hollywood’s chaos.
What emerged was a masterclass in sustainable performance—and a shared belief that their work serves something far greater than personal glory.
The Unglamorous Reality Behind Movie Musical Magic
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.
Hugh Jackman nervously whispers a simple mantra every time he settles in to watch a new movie musical: “Please be great. Please be great.”
The 57-year-old veteran of screen and stage is finally declaring his favorite genre is officially “back” after starring in biopic Song Sung Blue and watching Cynthia Erivo’s powerhouse performance in the two-part Wicked adaptation.
In a recent conversation for Variety and CNN’s Actors on Actors, the two friends sat down to discuss their current films, revealing intimate details about their creative processes and the philosophy that keeps them grounded in Hollywood’s chaos.
What emerged was a masterclass in sustainable performance—and a shared belief that their work serves something far greater than personal glory.
The Unglamorous Reality Behind Movie Musical Magic
Erivo, 38, didn’t stumble into her career-defining role as Elphaba unprepared. Her approach to maintaining stamina during the grueling production schedule reveals an athlete’s discipline.
When I get to a venue, I ask before we begin to make sure there’s a treadmill in the room so I can get up in the morning — there’s no excuse — and run. I take every kind of tea that I need with me, all the protein bars, my vitamins: I always have them.
Jackman immediately connected with this philosophy, sharing advice from his friend Jonathan Groff, who told him: “I just made this decision that I was going to finish stronger than when I started.”
These aren’t casual performers coasting on talent alone. They’re treating their bodies like finely-tuned instruments that require constant maintenance.
Four Months of Rehearsal: The Luxury That Changed Everything
When Erivo revealed Wicked had four months of rehearsal before shooting began in December 2022, Jackman’s response was immediate: “That’s heaven.”
He compared it to his nine weeks for Les Misérables, which he’d considered generous. The extended preparation gave Erivo and her castmates something rare in film—time to discover emotional depths that stage productions can’t explore.
It was interesting because Fiyero and Elphaba, onstage, you don’t have much time to find out how they get where they are. But with this, we had time to breathe into it a little bit more. You get to see a side of her that you don’t necessarily even know is there — this beautiful, softer side.
Jackman called musicals “the Mount Everest of movie-making” and credited director Jon Chu with solving the genre’s biggest challenge: making it feel natural when characters burst into song.
The Silence Between Speaking and Singing
Erivo identified what separates forgettable musical moments from transcendent ones—the invisible thread that makes singing feel inevitable rather than awkward.
It’s the moment between the speaking and the singing. It’s the silence. And every time, he would find a way for us to find that invisible thread so that there is no other choice but for these characters to start to sing.
Jackman shared a story from working with director Trevor Nunn on Oklahoma! that illustrates this principle perfectly. Nunn wouldn’t let the cast sing for three weeks, insisting they treat lyrics like thought itself.
When Jackman questioned repeating the opening line of “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” Nunn’s response was simple but profound: “You better find a reason to say it.”
The Vocal Chemistry Nobody Could Predict
One of the most surprising revelations from the conversation centered on Erivo’s partnership with Ariana Grande. The two had never sung together before being cast as Elphaba and Glinda.
Their first moment harmonizing was at director Jon Chu’s house, with composer Stephen Schwartz at the piano introducing new songs written specifically for the film.
We had no idea they would. Our voices are so different. It’s a lovely thing. When we would record tracks for rehearsal purposes, you could see the vocal lines on the screen, and our vocal lines were the same, which never happens. You can’t orchestrate that.
Jackman marveled at this serendipity, recognizing it as one of those magical accidents that can’t be manufactured—only discovered.
Performance as Service, Not Spectacle
Both actors return repeatedly to a philosophy that transforms nerve-wracking moments into opportunities for connection. Before Erivo sang “Defying Gravity” at the Oscars, she shifted her focus away from herself.
Before I come onstage, I ask for whatever I’m doing to connect with whoever it needs to connect with, so that it’s not just for me. And because it’s not just for me, then I can send the energy outward, and I can then actually see people.
Jackman called this insight “the key” for anyone studying acting. He shares a similar ritual, saying a phrase before performances: “Allow this moment to be in service. Of consciousness. Of God. Of the absolute. Of whatever it is.”
This isn’t just spiritual platitude—it’s a practical anxiety management technique. By making performance about service rather than ego, both actors free themselves from the crushing weight of self-consciousness.
The Gift Mike Sardina Gave Hugh Jackman
Jackman’s role in Song Sung Blue as Mike Sardina—a Vietnam veteran turned Neil Diamond tribute performer—taught him something he’d forgotten in years of polished performances.
What Mike allowed me to do is to just entertain. To not be fussy about how I sounded. He didn’t even care if he sounded particularly like Neil Diamond. He just wanted to entertain people. That is in my DNA, but it’s something I forget sometimes.
Sardina lived with profound health issues and financial struggles, working oil changes while pursuing his dream. Nearly everyone told him to give up. He refused.
Jackman identified this as a crucial reminder: “Trust your gut, and refuse to say no.”
Grounding Yourself When Fame Explodes
When Jackman asked Erivo about handling sudden visibility, he drew from his own experience with X-Men at age 29. He recalled two strangers arguing in front of him about whether he was actually Wolverine—he pulled out his license to settle it.
Erivo, now 38, believes her extra decade of life experience has made all the difference.
If I had been 29 when this was happening, I think I would be a little out of control. But because I’m 10 years older than when you first started, I think I’ve found the ground. I have really good people around me who are helping to make sure that I’m still connecting with the floor.
Letting Go of Control: Jackman’s Evolution
When Erivo asked about his process for releasing characters, Jackman admitted his approach has fundamentally changed. Early in his career, he simply moved from role to role without proper closure.
With Song Sung Blue, something shifted. He trusted more, planned less, and worried less about others’ opinions.
I think it’s connected to worrying what other people think. A lot less. I think that was the turning point. Like, “You’ve done OK. Trust your instinct. You know what you’re doing.”
He added a crucial insight: “It’s as important to mark the ending of something as it is the beginning.”
The Wolverine Decision That Changed His Mind
After Logan, Jackman publicly declared he was finished playing Wolverine. Then he saw Deadpool and immediately envisioned the buddy-comedy dynamic of Eddie Murphy and Nick Nolte in 48 Hrs.
He tried pushing the idea down, concerned about appearing indecisive. Eventually, he made peace with changing his mind.
You know what? I change my mind. It’s not that big of a deal. I’m not even gonna say I’m sorry.
When asked if it truly feels finished now, Jackman’s answer was telling: “It doesn’t feel like the end.”
Therapy, Sleep, and Releasing Emotions
Erivo’s post-production ritual is refreshingly honest. After holding emotions throughout filming, she allows herself complete release once the project wraps.
Sleep. And then a therapy session. Through the process, I’m often holding onto emotions, and once the thing is released, I really allow myself to let it all go.
After the Oscars, she boarded a plane to South Africa for her next film and cried the entire flight. That’s not weakness—that’s intentional emotional processing.
What emerges from this conversation isn’t just acting technique or career advice. It’s a philosophy of sustainable excellence built on service, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up even when perfectionism whispers that you’re not ready.
Both Jackman and Erivo have discovered something essential: true confidence comes not from never doubting yourself, but from knowing what you have and being comfortable sharing it.