Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness’ split had been “a long time coming,” a source close to the couple told Pvnew exclusively Friday.
Following news that the two actors were separating after 27 years of marriage, a Broadway insider told us they weren’t surprised at all, adding, “It happened a while ago. Friends and family knew about it.”
The insider theorized that there may have been problems between the two for a while, most likely even before Jackman returned to Broadway in February 2022 for “The Music Man.”
The reason? “Deb wasn’t at rehearsals very much,” they told us, adding that she “was even spotted snoozing during some of them.”
The insider furthered that a third was not involved and they had simply morphed into “roommates.”
Despite those close to them knowing their split was only a matter of time, fans were shocked when the couple announced their split on Friday with a joint statement.
“We have been blessed to share almost three decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage,” the former couple told People.
“Our journey now is shifting, and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth.”
Jackman 54, and Furness, 67 further explained that “our family has been and always will be our highest priority” as “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,” the statement continued before they signed off as “Deb and Hugh Jackman.”
“This is the sole statement either of us will make,” they clarified at the end of the statement.
The couple’s love story began when they met on the set of Australian TV series “Correlli” in 1995 and tied the knot the following year.
After struggling to have children of their own, they adopted two kids: Oscar, now 23, and Ava, now 18.
The “Wolverine” star has long publicly gushed about Furness, writing effusive notes on social media on their anniversaries.
In 2012, Jackman praised Furness at the Tony Awards when she presented him with a humanitarian award.
“There is something I hold [in my heart] that is the reason why I’m here today, why any of this is possible… why any of this means anything, and that is because my incredible wife and kids support me,” he said on stage.
“I love you with all my heart. I know how much you hate public speaking; this is probably the greatest thing you’ve ever done for me,” before sweeping her up in a passionate smooch.
