Deborra-Lee Furness, the former wife of actor Hugh Jackman, has publicly addressed their separation for the first time since their highly publicized split. Speaking in 2025, Furness discussed her perspective on the end of their marriage, referencing experiences with betrayal and reflecting on the emotional aftermath, a topic that has fueled conversation regarding the Hugh Jackman divorce and ex-wife statement 2025.
Hugh Jackman, widely recognized for his film and stage performances, found his personal life under scrutiny after announcing his divorce from Deborra-Lee Furness in 2023. The couple, married for 27 years with two children, decided to end their marriage following rumors about Jackman’s connection with his co-star Sutton Foster from “The Music Man.” This speculation drew media attention, further intensified by recent statements and social media activity from both parties.
Deborra-Lee Furness Offers Honest Reflections on Betrayal and Growth
In May 2025, shortly after filing for divorce, Deborra-Lee Furness made a rare and candid public statement. She did not name Hugh Jackman or Sutton Foster, but her words suggested that betrayal had been a factor in the breakdown of the marriage. Furness shared words of empathy for others enduring similar emotional hardships, highlighting the lasting pain such experiences can cause.
“My heart and compassion go out to everyone who has traversed the traumatic journey of betrayal.”
—Deborra-Lee Furness

Continuing her statement, Furness described betrayal as a deep and enduring wound. She talked about relying on her spiritual beliefs for comfort and resilience while adjusting to the loss of a relationship that had spanned nearly three decades.
“It’s a profound wound that cuts deep.”
—Deborra-Lee Furness
Furness explained how her faith played a central role during this difficult transition. She encouraged others to seek guidance from whatever higher belief system they connect with, emphasizing that challenging events could ultimately lead to personal growth and the fulfillment of one’s greater purpose.
“I believe in a higher power and that God/the universe, whatever you relate to as your guidance, is always working FOR us,”
—Deborra-Lee Furness
“This belief has helped me navigate the breakdown of an almost three-decade marriage. I have gained much knowledge and wisdom through this experience. Even when we are presented with apparent adversity, it is leading us to our greatest good, our true purpose.”
—Deborra-Lee Furness
The actress and producer added that, in the process of healing, maintaining personal values and boundaries can be liberating. She revealed that this lesson was vital in coping with the emotional impact of the split, and advised others not to internalize blame or take the situation too personally.
“Returning to yourself and living within your own integrity, values and boundaries is liberation and freedom,”
—Deborra-Lee Furness
“That none of this is personal.”
—Deborra-Lee Furness
Furness further reflected on the idea that relationships serve specific purposes in each person’s life, helping people recognize and heal their own vulnerabilities. Even with the hurt, she expressed gratitude for what she had learned from her journey.
“We are all on our individual journeys, and I believe that the relationships in our lives are not random,”
—Deborra-Lee Furness
“We are drawn to people, we invite them in, in order to learn our lessons and to recognize and heal the broken parts of ourselves…I remain grateful.”
—Deborra-Lee Furness
Hugh Jackman Alludes to Divorce in Instagram Video
Hugh Jackman, while not making an official statement in response to Furness’s comments, appeared to address the situation through social media. On the day her statement became public, Jackman posted a video on Instagram, performing a dance routine to N’SYNC’s popular breakup anthem “Bye, Bye, Bye.” The timing of the post was widely discussed, as it coincided with ongoing rumors about his relationship with Sutton Foster and fuelled discussion about his views on the split.
The video’s caption, “FINALLY,” did not directly comment on the divorce. Still, the public saw it as a possible reference to the end of his marriage. Media reports, including The Independent, noted that while the post may have appeared dismissive, there was no confirmation that it was meant as a response to Deborra-Lee Furness.
A report from People magazine suggested that Jackman was caught off guard by his ex-wife’s candid remarks. In January 2025, Jackman and Sutton Foster were seen holding hands after leaving a restaurant together, quietly confirming their romantic relationship after months of speculation. This new development added context to both the divorce and the emotional tone of Furness’s statement.
The Broader Resonance of Deborra-Lee Furness’s Statement
The announcement and subsequent statements from both Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness have sparked conversations about betrayal, integrity, and personal evolution after the end of a long-term marriage. Furness’s openness about her experience has resonated with the wider public, especially those who have navigated similar emotional journeys.
Her expressions of compassion and advice to maintain values through adversity highlight a message of resilience. As the details continue to draw public attention, the separation of Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness illustrates the complexities of personal relationships in the spotlight, setting an example of vulnerability and reflection that others may look to as they manage their own challenges.
