Hugh Jackman, Deborra-Lee Furness announce separation after 27 years of marriage

The couple married in April 1996 and share two children together.

September 15, 2023, 2:34 PM

Hugh Jackman and wife Deborra-Lee Furness are separating after more than 27 years of marriage, ABC News has confirmed.

The couple announced the news Friday in a joint statement that they said is the "sole statement either of us will make" and was signed "Deb and Hugh Jackman."

"We have been blessed to share almost 3 decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage," they told People. "Our journey now is shifting and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth."

"Our family has been and always will be our highest priority. We undertake this next chapter with gratitude, love, and kindness," the statement continued. "We greatly appreciate your understanding in respecting our privacy as our family navigates this transition in all of our lives. This is the sole statement either of us will make."

PHOTO: In this Sept. 8, 2022, file photo, Hugh Jackman and his wife Deborra-Lee Furness appear at the Venice International Film Festival.
In this Sept. 8, 2022, file photo, Hugh Jackman and his wife Deborra-Lee Furness appear at the Venice International Film Festival.
Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Image, FILE

Jackman and Furness, who married in April 1996 after meeting the previous year on the set of the Australian TV series "Corelli," share two children together -- their son Oscar and their daughter Ava.

The couple celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary in April, with Jackman sharing a heartfelt tribute to Furness on Instagram.

"I love you Deb. Today is our 27th wedding anniversary. 27 YEARS!! I love you so much," he wrote at the time. "Together we have created a beautiful family. And life. Your laughter, your spirit, generosity, humor, cheekiness, courage and loyalty is an incredible gift to me. I love you with all my heart."