Gwyneth Paltrow on Kate Hudson friendship: 'She's like family'

Gwyneth Paltrow described Kate Hudson as 'like a little sister' while honouring her at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. Paltrow praised Hudson's performance in 'Song Sung Blue' and reflected on their decades-long friendship.

Actress Gwyneth Paltrow has described her longtime friendship with Kate Hudson as being "like family," saying the Oscar-nominated star is "like a little sister to me," according to People. Paltrow, 53, made the remarks while introducing Hudson, 46, at the Arlington Artist of the Year Award event during the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, where Hudson was honoured for her Oscar-nominated performance in Song Sung Blue.

A Decades-Long Friendship

"I am here because Kate Hudson and I are real, true, old friends," Paltrow said during her speech. "She's like a little sister to me. I'm much older than she is, but I remember seeing her when she was little," according to People.

Paltrow noted that her parents, Blythe Danner and Bruce Paltrow, were friendly with Hudson's parents, Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell. "We grew up in the same orbit, but it wasn't really until the early 2000s that we became what we are now," Paltrow said, adding that their friendship has spanned decades of shared milestones.

Reflecting on their bond, she recalled celebrating major birthdays together and supporting each other through breakups. "We've been through breakups together and just this wonderful intertwining of our families. Our kids were in a band together when they were tiny and went to high school together," she said, praising Hudson as "an amazing artist, an entrepreneur, obviously an incredible singer and a mother," according to People.

Praise for 'Song Sung Blue' Performance

Paltrow also shared that she FaceTimed Hudson immediately after watching Song Sung Blue, telling her she burst into tears. "Not only because I was so proud of your skill and your brilliance, but because I felt you finally had a role that shows all of what you can do," she said.

Directed by Craig Brewer, Song Sung Blue was released on December 25 and stars Hudson opposite Hugh Jackman as a real-life couple who formed a Neil Diamond tribute band in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Hudson's performance has earned her nominations at the Golden Globes and upcoming awards ceremonies.

Hudson Reciprocates Praise

Speaking at the festival ahead of Paltrow's tribute, Hudson echoed the sentiment, calling Paltrow "Auntie Gwyneth" and describing her as "the most loyal, beautiful friend." "We lived in England at the same time, and she was a huge support system for me and my son," Hudson said. "She's always been there for me, and I look up to her," according to People. (ANI)

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