Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness have announced the two are separating after nearly three decades of marriage.
“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,” the couple shared in a joint statement with People.
“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.”
The pair, who have two children together, Oscar, 23, and Ava, 18, tied the knot in 1996.
Jackman, 54, and Furness, 67, first met in 1995 while filming the Australian TV series Correlli. The two began dating a short time after.
“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,’” Jackman recalled.
Despite Furness’ initial hesitation about their 13-year age difference, the couple married April 11, 1996, less than a year after they first crossed paths.
In 2000, they welcomed a son, Oscar, and in 2005, they welcomed their daughter, Ava.
When the couple celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary in April, Jackman shared a sweet photo of the couple along with a touching message to Furness.
“I love you Deb. Today is our 27th wedding anniversary. 27 YEARS!! I love you so much,” he captioned a photo of them smiling. “Together we have created a beautiful family. And life. Your laughter, your spirit, generosity, humor, cheekiness, courage and loyalty is an incredible gift to me. I love you with all my heart.”