Relationships, with all their complexities and joys, often navigate life’s unpredictable currents. Over the years, couples evolve, facing challenges and celebrating milestones together, yet sometimes, despite the best intentions, paths diverge.
A poignant example is the recent news that, after nearly three decades as one of Australia’s most beloved couples, Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness have officially closed the chapter on their marriage.
Almost two years after their amicable separation made headlines in 2023, Deborra-Lee Furness, 69, has now filed for divorce in New York, marking the formal end of a partnership that inspired many both here and abroad.
Furness also hinted at the widely speculated reason behind their split in an exclusive statement sent to Daily Mail.
‘My heart and compassion goes out to everyone who has traversed the traumatic journey of betrayal,’ she said.
‘It’s a profound wound that cuts deep, however I believe in a higher power and that God/the universe, whatever you relate to as your guidance, is always working FOR us.’
‘This belief has helped me navigate the breakdown of an almost three-decade marriage. I have gained much knowledge and wisdom through this experience,’ she added.
‘Even when we are presented with apparent adversity, it is leading us to our greatest good, our true purpose.’
‘It can hurt, but in the long run, returning to yourself and living within your own integrity, values and boundaries is liberation and freedom.’
Jackman, 56, and Furness first met in 1995 on the set of the Australian TV series Correlli. Their whirlwind romance led to a wedding in 1996, and for 27 years, they seemed the picture of happiness, raising two children, Oscar and Ava, and supporting each other’s careers through thick and thin.
When the couple announced their separation in September 2023, the news shocked fans and the entertainment industry alike.
Among the most rampant speculations about their separation was that the actor was unfaithful, something all parties involved refused to directly address at the time.
Observers said their statement was a masterclass in grace and mutual respect: ‘We have been blessed to share almost three decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage.’
‘Our journey now is shifting, and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth.’
Insiders at the time emphasised that the decision was far from impulsive. ‘It was not a snap decision—they took a lot of time and consideration of everything, and they made this decision together,’ a source told People.
‘They are going on separate journeys, but will always be a family. They’ll always be co-parents and best friends.’
Furness’ lawyer, Elena Karabatos, has now submitted the necessary filings to finalise the divorce, including agreements on settlement, health care coverage, and medical child support.
The terms are uncontested, meaning both parties agree and only a judge’s signature is needed to make it official.
Since the separation, Jackman and Furness have been spotted embracing new chapters in their lives.
Furness recently attended the Parsons School of Design’s 2025 Parsons Benefit in New York City, looking radiant and confident.
Earlier this year, she was seen enjoying the Australian Open with daughter Ava, showing that family remains at the heart of her world.
Jackman, meanwhile, has kept busy with a string of high-profile projects. He’s currently starring in the off-Broadway play Sexual Misconduct of the Middle Class and is set to appear in Song Sung Blue and Three Bags Full: A Sheep Detective Movie.
His concert series, From New York, with Love, draws crowds at Radio City Music Hall, and he’s been seen out and about in New York with Broadway star Sutton Foster, sparking rumours of a new friendship—or perhaps something more.
Jackman and Furness have spoken candidly about the challenges and growth of such a significant life transition.
At a screening of her film Force of Nature: The Dry 2, Furness reflected, ‘[I learned] that I’m strong and resilient. We are all a constant evolution.’
Despite the end of their marriage, Jackman and Furness have made it clear that their children remain their top priority. Their commitment to co-parenting and maintaining a strong family bond is a powerful reminder that relationships can evolve without bitterness or acrimony.
Have you experienced a significant life change after 50? How did you navigate the transition, and what advice would you offer others? We’d love to hear your stories and reflections in the comments below.
Also read: Is your marriage secretly over? Find out if you’re stuck in a ‘silent divorce’
