Hugh Jackman is an Australian actor who’s best known for portraying the role of Wolverine in the “X-Men” franchise. He was born on October 12, 1968, in Sydney, New South Wales to UK-born parents, granting him both Australian and British citizenship. While completing his secondary education, Jackman participated in numerous plays and musical productions. However, he didn’t fall in love with acting until he was studying at university when he took a drama course and snagged the leading role in his class’s production of “The Memorandum.”
In 2000, Jackman got his breakthrough role by playing Wolverine in the superhero film “X-Men.” He would portray the character for almost two decades, earning him the Guinness World Record for “longest career as a live-action Marvel character.” The record was recently surpassed by Patrick Stewart when he reprised his role as Charles Xavier in 2022. The film “Logan” was supposed to be Jackman’s farewell to the character, but Ryan Reynolds convinced the actor to make a cameo for “Deadpool 3.”
Although Jackman is known for his action-packed roles, the actor has dabbled in various genres including musical theater. Throughout the years, he has landed starring roles in films like “Kate & Leopold” (2001), “Van Helsing” (2004), and “The Prestige” (2006). Jackman also took up the role of Jean Valjean for the film adaptation of “Les Miserables,” earning him an Academy Award nomination. In 2017, the actor starred in “The Greatest Showman” which enjoyed critical and commercial successes.
It’s undeniable that Jackman is one of Hollywood’s A-listers thanks to his amazing talents and long list of accolades. But just like any top celebrity, the actor isn’t immune to tabloid gossip and controversies. During his entire career in the movie industry, Jackman’s sexuality has always been questioned. So, is Hugh Jackman gay? Read the truth below.
VOTE: What is Hugh Jackman’s Sexuality?
Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness
In 1995, Jackman met his future wife, Deborra-Lee Furness when they co-starred on the Australian cable show, “Corelli.” The actress was older than him by 13 years and had more experience in the industry. On the other hand, it was Jackman’s first role after he finished school. Even though the show only survived one season, their connection lasted for more than two decades.
In 2017, PEOPLE magazine interviewed Jackman about the longevity of his career and marriage. According to the actor, he knew from the very start that he loved her. Jackman even reminisced about the first time that he met Furness.
Deb, she was a big star. I get picked up, and Deb is in the front seat of the car. I’ll never forget. She took off her seatbelt and she turned around and put out her hand and took off her sunglasses and said, ‘Hi, I’m Deborra-Lee Furness, nice to meet you.’ I remember thinking, ‘I like this girl.’ “
Hugh Jackman to PEOPLE, 2017
Despite the obvious chemistry that Jackman and Furness shared, it would take the actor quite some time to express his feelings for her. For one thing, they were co-stars and he viewed it as “unprofessional” to have “a crush on his leading lady.” Nevertheless, the “X-Men” actor gathered up the courage and eventually told Furness who felt the same way. Four months into the relationship, Jackman popped the question and the pair got married the following year.
Their marriage became tabloid fodder for a while, especially considering the 13-year age gap between the couple. However, the newly wedded pair ignored the naysayers and went on to start their family. Due to Furness’ age, the couple had trouble conceiving so they chose to adopt instead. They have two children together, Oscar and Ava, whom they adopted in 2000 and 2005 respectively.
In 2019, the couple celebrated their 23rd wedding anniversary, an impressive feat considering that not all Hollywood marriages last that long. When asked about the secret to their long-lasting marriage, Jackman emphasized the importance of intimacy in a relationship. According to the actor, it’s not enough that you have physical intimacy, you must also have intimacy in terms of sharing the good, bad, fears, and successes. He also shared that he and Furness were always completely themselves with each other even in the beginning.
Three years later, the pair reached their silver anniversary at 25 years together. In an emotional post on Instagram, Jackman penned a heartfelt message to his wife:
Being married to you Deb is as natural as breathing. From nearly the moment we met … I knew our destiny was to be together. In our 25 years – our love has only grown deeper. The fun, excitement and adventure more exhilarating; the learning even greater. I’m forever grateful to share our love, our life – and, our family together. We’ve only just begun. Deb, I love you with all my heart!”
Hugh Jackman via Instagram, 2021
While everybody thought that the couple would last forever, Jackman and Furness shocked fans across the world when they announced their separation. On September 15, 2023, news broke that the pair were amicably ending their 27-year marriage. In a joint statement, Jackman and Furness stated:
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. Our family has been and always will be our highest priority. 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. This is the sole statement either of us will make.”
Jackman and Furness via PEOPLE, 2023
Hugh Jackman Addresses Gay Rumors
Ever since his debut on the silver screen, Jackman has been plagued with questions surrounding his sexuality. Despite portraying the extremely masculine character that is Wolverine, some fans of the actor insist that he’s a closeted gay. These rumors originated from Jackman’s involvement in musical theater and his flamboyant costumes onstage. The actor’s current divorce only fueled the talks further.
While Jackman hasn’t directly addressed the rumors yet, he’s made it clear that he’s aware of the issues around his gender identity. He also admitted that the gossip annoyed his now ex-wife, although she had a great sense of humor about it. According to the actress, it would be like insisting that Elton John is straight and she’s sure that the singer would be pissed about it. Nevertheless, both Jackman and his wife are extremely supportive of the LGBTQ community.
Is Hugh Jackman Gay?
No, Hugh Jackman is not gay. He was married to Deborra-Lee Furness for 27 years and they have two children together. He has never commented on his sexuality but is a vocal ally for the members of the LGBTQ family.
Featured Image: “Hugh Jackman”, by Eva Rinaldi, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED