Grace McNeil, mother of Hugh Jackman, has expressed a rare and positive view regarding the actor’s new partner, Sutton Foster, following the end of Jackman’s marriage earlier this year. Despite the sadness McNeil felt over the dissolution of Hugh’s marriage in May, sources close to the family reveal she is ultimately happy to see her son flourishing again alongside a new companion.
Insiders say McNeil regards Hugh Jackman’s new partner as “wonderful” and is encouraged by the noticeable transformation in him since the relationship began.
Jackman’s Marriage and Early Connection with Sutton Foster
Hugh Jackman, 57, was married to Deborra-Lee Furness, 70, for 27 years until their separation was made public in 2023. Speculation about the role Sutton Foster played in the split has circulated widely. Jackman and Foster initially met in 2021 when they co-starred in the Broadway show The Music Man. At that time, both were married—Jackman to Furness and Foster to screenwriter Ted Griffin, from whom she later divorced.
Source reports indicate that Furness held suspicions about Jackman and Foster’s closeness and found confirmation after paparazzi images of the two together emerged.
Emotional Reactions and Statements from Those Involved
Grace McNeil’s feelings about the divorce remain complex. A close source commented,
“Grace was never happy about Hugh’s divorce, but it’s hard to argue when you see how happy he is,”
reflecting mixed emotions but acceptance in light of Jackman’s renewed happiness.
The same source added,
“He’s a new man and Grace knows it’s because of Sutton. She’s looking forward to getting to know this wonderful woman who’s swept her son off his feet.”
Deborra-Lee Furness has publicly addressed her own experience through a statement shared with the Daily Mail, offering empathy to others who have faced betrayal, saying her
“heart and compassion goes out to everyone who has traversed the traumatic journey of betrayal.”
Public Appearance and Engagement Rumors
Jackman and Foster stepped onto the red carpet as a couple for the first time in October, confirming the seriousness of their relationship. Following a romantic trip to Costa Rica, there have been claims that the couple became engaged, though this remains unconfirmed by either party publicly.
One insider revealed,
“It wasn’t a shock to Sutton as it’s something they’ve been talking about,”
while also confirming,
“But Hugh did get down on one knee and she is in the possession of a diamond solitaire she’ll show off when they’re ready.”
Building a Relationship Between Sutton Foster and Grace McNeil
Though Sutton Foster has not yet met Grace McNeil in person, the two women have developed a close connection through frequent FaceTime conversations. An insider explained that McNeil, who finds travel difficult, has been anticipating the moment when they can finally meet face to face.
The source noted,
“It’s long overdue that Sutton and Grace got to spend some quality time in person. It’s not easy for Grace to travel so she’s been waiting to sit down and have a decent chat over a cuppa tea with her Sutton,”
highlighting the growing bond despite physical distance.
Family Integration and Personal Loss
The potential meeting between Foster and McNeil is expected to hold added emotional weight for Hugh Jackman, especially given his loss of his father, Christopher John Jackman, who passed away on Australian Father’s Day in September 2021 at the age of 84.
Meanwhile, Jackman’s adult children with Furness, Oscar and Ava, have already met Sutton Foster, suggesting gradual integration of the new relationship into family life.
Significance of the New Relationship for Hugh Jackman
The support and acceptance from Jackman’s mother reflect a hopeful chapter in the actor’s personal life following a difficult separation. With the public emergence of their relationship and speculation about an engagement, Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster appear to be moving forward with stability and happiness. The developing bond between Foster and McNeil indicates a promising family dynamic as this new partnership continues to evolve.
