After Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness announced their divorce in September 2023 after 27 years of marriage, it was a shock to fans who had long admired their partnership. For years, Jackman and Furness were a rare Hollywood love story that seemed to defy the odds – a couple who genuinely enjoyed each other’s company, supported one another’s careers, and raised two children together out of the media glare.
Anyone who’s followed Jackman’s career knows he’s always prioritized family over fame. Even as Wolverine made him an international superstar and his musical roles – like “The Greatest Showman” – cemented his versatility, Jackman was more likely to gush about his wife and kids than court the tabloids. Despite his outsized public persona, friends describe him as humble, approachable, and sincerely devoted to loved ones.
A Marriage That Defined Decades
Jackman and Furness met in 1995 on the set of the Australian series “Correlli.” Hugh, at the beginning of his career, was immediately smitten. In interviews over the years, he often mentioned how Deb’s self-assuredness drew him in – that he felt “so lucky” to have someone as grounded and supportive by his side. They married in 1996, later adopting two children, Oscar and Ava, and kept their family life fiercely private.
One of the reasons their split stung for fans was the palpable affection Jackman always displayed. Rewatch almost any of his award speeches or candid interviews – he seldom missed a chance to praise Deborra-Lee. And when the separation was announced, it wasn’t through bombshell accusations or public drama, but through a thoughtful statement that honored their nearly three decades together and the journey ahead. “We have been blessed to share almost three decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage,” they wrote. “Our journey now is shifting, and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth.”
The months since have played out quietly by Hollywood standards. Despite rumors, there’s been no credible evidence connecting Jackman to anyone new, including Sutton Foster, his charismatic Broadway co-star in “The Music Man.” Anyone who saw them perform together knows their chemistry was real, but sources close to both say their relationship is friendly and professional, nothing more.
Life Beyond Headlines
Those close to Hugh say that, even amid personal upheaval, he’s stayed true to himself. He’s been spotted at Knicks games, going for walks in New York, and – perhaps most importantly – spending time with Oscar and Ava, putting his role as a dad first. As he said during press for “Logan” back in 2017, “The most fulfilling relationships are ones where you can completely be yourself.” That down-to-earth attitude still seems to ground him.
Of course, being single in your fifties with paparazzi following your every move presents its own set of challenges. The rumor mill has, at various points, tried to link Jackman with fellow actors like Anne Hathaway or Rebecca Ferguson, but these stories never seem to gain much traction. If Jackman is dating, he’s gone to great lengths to keep it under wraps – a skill he’s honed after decades in the spotlight.
Instead, friends say he’s taking things day by day, focusing on his well-being and throwing himself into his work, including the much-anticipated “Deadpool & Wolverine.” He’s also enjoying simple pleasures – catching up with old friends, traveling, and finding a new rhythm to life outside of marriage.
Past Relationships
Sutton Foster
Deborra-Lee Furness
In the end, maybe what stands out most about Hugh Jackman is that, even after all he’s been through – career triumphs and personal heartbreaks alike – he still comes across as remarkably grounded. He’s not rushing into a new relationship, not looking to manufacture headlines, and not pretending this transition is easy. If anything, he’s showing that you can weather profound change with grace and authenticity – qualities that have long endeared him to fans on and off the screen.
