When two icons from different worlds come together, magic tends to happen. This December, BBC Sounds and BBC Radio 2 bring that magic to listeners with an exclusive programme titled Neil Diamond At The BBC, featuring a heartfelt introduction and personal reflections from Hollywood superstar Hugh Jackman.
The special promises a blend of nostalgia, rare BBC archive material, deep musical storytelling, and an intimate look into one of the world’s most beloved singer-songwriters. Jackman’s involvement adds a surprising new layer to this homage—one shaped not only by admiration but by a deeply personal creative journey.
A Tribute Years in the Making
Hugh Jackman’s Longstanding Admiration for Neil Diamond
For decades, Hugh Jackman has spoken passionately about his love for music—yet even his fans may not realise the depth of his connection to Neil Diamond’s work. In this new BBC special, he introduces the programme with a sincerity that reflects years of admiration.
Jackman reveals that working on his latest film, Song Sung Blue, intensified the bond. The film tells the true story of a Neil Diamond tribute performer navigating life’s challenges while chasing the American dream—an emotional narrative that required Jackman to dive deep into Diamond’s songs, performances and personal history.
“I was lucky enough to spend some time with Neil,” Jackman explained, recalling how meeting the legend shaped the film. “He rang me after seeing it. He was crying—he knew the story well and gave the rights to all his music because he loved it so much.”
This intimate endorsement from Diamond himself is a rare honour—and a testament to the emotional power of the project.
Inside ‘Neil Diamond At The BBC’
A Curated Journey Through the Archives
The BBC special brings together a hand-picked selection of archival interviews spanning decades of Diamond’s illustrious career. Listeners will revisit moments from conversations with:
- Steve Wright
- Tim Smith
- Paul Gambaccini
- Nicky Campbell
- Gloria Hunniford
- Johnnie Walker
- Matt Everitt
These interviews explore the stories behind some of Diamond’s most cherished hits, shedding light on the creative process and emotional experiences behind songs such as:
- I Am… I Said
- Sweet Caroline
- Cracklin’ Rosie
- Solitary Man
Memories From the Brill Building Era
Diamond paints vivid pictures of his early days in the legendary Brill Building, where he worked alongside future icons including:
- Neil Sedaka
- Carole King
- Burt Bacharach
These stories reveal a young artist navigating the bustling heart of American pop songwriting, discovering his voice among giants.
The Story Behind ‘You Don’t Bring Me Flowers’
One standout anecdote revisits the accidental duet that became a global hit. Diamond recalls how a DJ merged his version of “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” with Barbra Streisand’s separate recording, inspiring the two stars to unite for a proper duet.
It remains one of the most iconic musical pairings in history.
Neil Diamond on Family, Fame and Identity
The interviews also delve into Diamond’s personal life, including:
These candid reflections offer fans a rare glimpse into the man behind the music.
Jackman contributes his own anecdotes, including the now-famous story of inviting himself over to Neil’s home—“a very Australian thing to do,” he jokes.
During the visit, Diamond surprised him by pulling out a karaoke machine.
