Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness represented the quintessential Australian union for over thirty years, based on fidelity, common ideals, and sincere love. The public’s attention was captivated for years by their path from a fortuitous encounter on an Australian television set to worldwide renown. That chapter has now officially concluded.
The Suffolk County Supreme Court in New York recorded the couple’s final divorce decree on June 12, 2025. One of Australia’s most iconic marriages came to a formal end on June 23 when the judgement was posted to the public court system. Almost two years after declaring their separation, Furness, 69, filed for divorce on May 27.
Although they presented the divorce as peaceful and family-focused in their 2023 statement, the two years that passed between the separation and filing, along with public events in each of their lives, have exposed a more complex and poignant tale. Betrayal, changing relationships, property choices, and a meticulously negotiated settlement of an estimated AU$375 million (US$250 million) were all part of the trip.
This is the whole chronology and background of every confirmed detail, every significant event, and the whole factual and emotional picture of Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness’ divorce.
Their History: A Collaboration Originating in Australia
When Jackman, just out of NIDA, was paired with Deborra-Lee Furness in the ABC drama Correlli in 1995, the tale began. Jackman had long admired Furness, who was already well-known in Australian cinema and television. They soon became close, and on April 11, 1996, they were married in Toorak, Victoria.
Together, they overcame the demands of celebrity and adopted two children, Oscar and Ava, throughout their marriage. Even while Jackman was becoming more well-known across the world, their relationship still seemed anchored. They often spoke about how their relationship was the cornerstone of their life and supported one another at award ceremonies, charity events, and premieres.
In a field that is notorious for brittle relationships, their marriage was seen for years as a rare stability.
Separation Public Announcement: September 2023
Jackman and Furness announced their split in a joint statement on September 15, 2023. “We have been fortunate to share nearly three decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage,” they said, their remarks brimming with appreciation and respect for one another. Now that our path is changing, we have made the decision to part ways in order to focus on our own personal development. Our first focus has always been and will continue to be our family. We approach this new chapter with compassion, love, and appreciation.
The statement, they emphasised, would be their sole response to the issue.
The sentiment was friendly and cohesive at the time. There was no sign of hostility. However, as time went on, little changes started to appear in the background.
Life After the Announcement – A Calm yet Stressful Change
A Prolonged Silence Without Legal Action
When almost two years went by without a divorce filing, many were taken aback. The two maintained their public dignity and their professional obligations throughout this period, but their growing private estrangement became increasingly apparent.
Jackman seldom appeared in public and often went to events alone. Although Furness was seldom featured in the media, he was sometimes seen at charity events, exhibits, and fundraisers.
Rumours Start to Appear
In 2024, Jackman’s relationship with Broadway actor Sutton Foster, who co-starred with him in The Music Man (2022), became a major focus. Following Jackman’s split, rumours about their strong relationship and onstage chemistry that had been seen throughout the production reappeared.
Sutton Foster and Ted Gryphon filed for divorce in October 2024. The timing fueled speculations even though neither side made any public charges.
The Public Transition – Sutton Foster & Jackman Go Public
After almost two years of rumours, Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster’s relationship was officially confirmed when they first appeared together as a couple in January 2025. In New York City, the couple was seen strolling hand in hand while grinning and at ease.
By October 20 and 21, 2025, they were posing for photographs with confidence as they attended two consecutive public events: the Richard Marx performance the next evening and the Fetch Pet Gala at The Carlyle Hotel. Their well-coordinated public appearance indicated that they were entering the public eye as a pair.
The picture of Jackman with a new lover only months before his divorce was completed caused a significant narrative change for Australian viewers. What had been a discreet, respectable parting was suddenly complicated emotionally.
Deborra and Lee Furness filed for divorce on May 27, 2025.
Deborra-Lee Furness announced their separation and filed for divorce in New York over two years later. Her submission attested to:
- There was no dispute about the settlement.
- Major terms had already been agreed upon.
- The judge’s approval was all that was needed.
- Plans had been developed for healthcare and associated duties.
Although the uncontested nature suggested collaboration behind the scenes, Furness’ post-filing public statement made clear how emotionally taxing the process had been for her.
The “Betrayal” Declaration That Changed Everything
Furness issued a very intimate and spiritual statement shortly after filing. It expressed suffering, acceptance, and the conviction that struggle may lead to significance.
She wrote: “Everyone who has experienced the agonising journey of betrayal has my heart and compassion.” It’s a deep and profound hurt. Nonetheless, I think the cosmos is constantly working in our favour and that there is a greater force. This conviction has guided me through the dissolution of a marriage that lasted over three decades.
Adversity had given her “knowledge and wisdom,” she said, and going back to one’s principles, integrity, and limits was “liberation and freedom.”
“None of this is personal,” was her most stunning last thought.
The message changed how the divide was seen by the general people. It suggested that the 2023 announcement’s upbeat, appreciative tone was quite different from the emotional experience that went on behind the scenes.
Hugh Jackman’s Reaction: “Disappointed” and “Blindsided”
Soon after, rumours circulated that Jackman was taken aback by Furness’s tone. According to sources, he was shocked by her use of the term “betrayal” and had anticipated the divorce would be neutral and private as first arranged.
In a public statement, Jackman’s close friend Gus Worland said that while the breakup had been “difficult,” he was “moving on with his life.” During the changeover, Jackman was attempting to concentrate on his family and his job, Worland said.
The tale gained further emotional depth from the contrast between Jackman’s guarded, silent answer and Furness’s contemplative, spiritual speech.
Financial Settlement: A Silently Divided $250 Million Fortune
Even if the specifics of the settlement are still confidential, a number of verified facts provide a clear picture of the financial situation:
No prenuptial agreement
Since the couple were married before Jackman became well-known worldwide, whatever assets they had amassed over the previous 27 years had to be divided.
The US$23 million penthouse in Manhattan
The couple discreetly split ownership of their opulent Manhattan apartment two days before filing for divorce. A significant portion of their portfolio, the property was valued between $21 million and $23 million, and its division indicated preparedness for a final settlement.
“A Stylish Payment for Spousal Support”
According to sources who spoke to Australian media, Furness was “pleased” with the settlement and had obtained substantial spousal assistance.
A Negotiated, Easy Settlement
Joint agreement is shown by the uncontested status, which prevents a protracted public dispute.
According to reports, the couple also had other foreign properties, such as homes in Australia and other assets in the United States.
Their Offspring – An Unwavering Concern
Oscar and Ava, Jackman and Furness’s two adult children, were always at the core of their choices throughout the whole process.
This was reaffirmed in their 2023 separation statement, and neither of them has said anything in public that may jeopardise family harmony. Co-parenting has remained steady and respectful in spite of the emotional difficulties.
Deborra-Lee’s Resilience and Strength Following the Divorce
Furness made an appearance at the Parsons Benefit in New York in May 2025, only a few days before the divorce was finalised. Her calm and confident demeanor reflected someone welcoming a new phase of life.
Her spiritual perspective and emphasis on boundaries, healing, and self-integrity indicated a return to self-reliance. She was regarded by those close to her as grounded, appreciative, and prepared to start again on her own terms.
The Next Chapter of Hugh Jackman’s Life: Public Romance and Momentum in the Field
Jackman’s change has been increasingly apparent to the general public. His connection with Sutton Foster, which was initially reported in 2022, then discreetly watched in 2023 and 2024 until being officially confirmed in 2025, represents a dramatic change in his private life.
Jackman continues to work professionally in both theatre and cinema, juggling the pressures of rebuilding after a protracted marriage with his obligations throughout the world. His and Foster’s relationship is stable, and based on their public appearances, it seems like they are at ease entering this next stage of their relationship.
Public Perception and Media Coverage
The divorce was characterised by Australian media as one of the most unexpected public splits in recent memory:
- The emotional difference between the 2023 declaration and the 2025 “betrayal” message was emphasised by News.com.au.
- The couple’s substantial property splits were described in detail by the Herald Sun.
- Details of the settlement and how both parties were financially comfortable were covered by Sky News Australia.
By transforming what seemed to be a calm separation into a narrative with depth, sensitivity, and human complexity, this coverage influenced public perception.
What the Narrative Ultimately Means
Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness’s divorce is more than just a celebrity split; it speaks to fundamental realities about committed partnerships, transformation, and public life.
Over decades, people develop in many ways.
What started in the middle of the 1990s finally developed into two people going in different directions.
Celebrity accentuates personal problems.
What would have been a private matter for a typical couple turned into a global sensation.
Over time, emotional reality becomes apparent.
Furness’ 2025 “betrayal” declaration and their 2023 separation announcement highlight the gap between private reality and public diplomacy.
Pain is not eliminated by dignity.
Both made an effort to handle the matter amicably despite the emergence of feelings.
At any age, new chapters in life may begin.
Both now embark on new lives that are moulded by experience rather than history.
Conclusion
An incredible chapter that lasted for over 30 years has come to an end with the finalisation of Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness’ divorce. Their marriage had depth, partnership, and durability despite being a cross-continental existence and an Australian love tale. Its conclusion has been coated with public scrutiny, fresh beginnings, healing, and pain.
However, during all of these stages—separation, conjecture, legal actions, new connections, and emotional declarations—one thing has stayed constant: Jackman and Furness have taken a careful approach to their family’s welfare.
Each of them enters a new phase of life as they go along, one that is defined by their current choices rather than the dissolution of their marriage.
FAQs
How many kids does Hugh Jackman have?
Hugh Jackman has two children — Oscar and Ava — both adopted during his marriage to Deborra-Lee Furness. They are now adults and remain a central priority for both parents.
How old is Hugh Jackman?
Hugh Jackman was born on 12 October 1968. He is 56 years old as of 2025.
How long was Hugh Jackman married?
Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness were married for 27 years, from April 1996 until their separation announcement in September 2023. Their divorce was finalised in June 2025.
What was Hugh Jackman’s wife like when she was young?
Deborra-Lee Furness began her career as a young Australian actress in the 1980s, known for her confidence, strong screen presence and early roles in film and television before meeting Jackman in 1995.
Is there interest in Hugh Jackman’s wife when she was young?
Yes — fans often search for young photos of Deborra-Lee Furness because of curiosity about her early acting career and the long history she shared with Jackman.
How old is Deborra-Lee Furness?
Deborra-Lee Furness was born on 30 November 1955. She is 69 years old as of 2025.
Are there young photos of Hugh Jackman’s wife?
Yes. Early photos of Deborra-Lee Furness are available from her acting days in Australia, including red-carpet events, film stills and promotions from the 1980s and early 1990s.
Where can I find Hugh Jackman and his wife’s photos?
Photos of Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness together are available from film premieres, charity events, award nights and their many public appearances over the years.
Are Hugh Jackman’s wedding photos public?
Only a few images from their 1996 wedding in Toorak, Victoria, have been shared publicly. Most wedding photos remain private, reflecting the couple’s desire to protect parts of their family life.
Why do people look for Hugh Jackman’s wedding pictures?
Interest in their wedding photos comes from the couple’s long marriage, their Australian origins and the warm, enduring public image they maintained for nearly three decades.
What do Hugh Jackman’s kids do now?
Oscar and Ava have largely stayed out of the spotlight. They maintain private lives, and both parents have consistently prioritised their privacy, especially during the divorce process.
