The Greatest Showman's Kiwi praised as 'talented and generous' by Hugh Jackman

Hugh Jackman is the quintessential star of stage and screen. He's been nominated for Oscar and is the winner of a Globe, an Emmy and two Tonys - so who better to play the Greatest Showman.

This is Jackman's version of circus man PT Barnum's story and it's been his passion project for over seven years.

It's packed to the brim with belting showtunes courtesy of the songwriters who won Oscars for La La Land.

But there is another star of this film - her name is Keala Settle. And yes, she's Kiwi as.

This ex-pat New Zealander is front and centre as the show's inspirational bearded lady Lettie. Her solo performance is the anthem of the show - and nominated for a Golden Globe.

And her biggest fan? The Greatest Showman himself.

"She's one of those people you immediately fall in love with," Jackman told Newshub.

"She's the most talented, authentic, real, generous person I've ever met."

High praise and with her allegiances and her accents split perfectly between New Zealand and Broadway, Settle better just get used to the bright lights of super-stardom.

The Greatest Showman hits New Zealand cinemas on Boxing Day.

Newshub.