Hugh Jackman and wife split after 27 years as pair release emotional statement

15 September 2023 , 17:33

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Hugh Jackman and his wife are split up (Image: Corbis via Getty Images)

Hugh Jackman and his wife Deborra-Lee are separating after 27 years.

The couple's official statement included an achknowlegement of the wholesome parts of their marriage. They told PEOPLE : "We have been blessed to share almost 3 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."

According to Hugh and Deborra-Lee, they are focusing on their family at this time. They explained: "We undertake this next chapter with gratitude, love, and kindness. We greatly appreciate your understanding in respecting our privacy as our family navigates this transition in all of our lives."

Hugh Jackman met his wife in 1995 (Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)

Additionally, they confirmed that they will not be making additional comments, calling this the "sole statement". The couple are looking to keep things private about the context surrounding this decision.

The pair first met in 1995 while filming an Australian TV show. The X-Men star has previously said that he was drawn to Deborra-Lee due to her confidence in their first introduction. They went on their first date a speedy two weeks later and their love was instantaneous. He told TODAY in 2018: "I knew two weeks into meeting Deb that we were going to be together for the rest of our lives."

Hugh Jackman and wife Deborra-Lee hold hands as they enjoy night out in Paris

It only took four months for Hugh to propose. Speaking about the moment, Deborra-Lee said on a podcast: "He was very nervous because he didn’t have a clue about jewellery or diamonds, and he just went in there, and he said, ‘I don’t know what I’m doing, so I’ll just tell you a bit about Deb.' And this poor jeweller, he sat there for an hour-and-a-half and [Hugh] bored him endlessly, giving [him] every nuance of my personality."

They were married less than a year after they met (Getty Images for Michael Kors)

Less than a year after meeting, the two said their vows at their wedding. Hugh and Deborra-Lee faced pregnancy complications early on and suffered miscarriages. Eventually, they were able to welcome their son Oscar Maximilian into the world in 2000. In 2005, the pair's daughter Ava Eliot was born and the pair adopted her.

If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at the Miscarriage Association. You can call them on 01924 200799 or email [email protected]

Alex West