On Sunday, October 26, Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster appeared together on the red carpet for the first time, marking a public milestone in their relationship. The occasion was the world premiere of Jackman’s new film, Song Sung Blue, held at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood during the closing of the annual AFI Fest.
The Australian actor, aged 57, wore a classic black tuxedo while Foster, 50, selected a floor-length black satin gown with spaghetti straps that highlighted her elegant presence. The couple smiled warmly and posed closely, showcasing their bond for photographers at the event.
The Context of Their Relationship and Shared Work Experience
Jackman was also photographed with his co-star Kate Hudson, who wore a silky burnt orange gown. In the film, Jackman and Hudson portray Mike and Claire Sardina, a married couple who lead the Neil Diamond tribute band Lightning & Thunder. Jackman’s connection with Hudson added depth to the film’s on-screen story.
Jackman and Foster’s romantic partnership was initially hinted at following their collaboration in the 2022 Broadway revival of The Music Man. Their relationship became more apparent in January when they were photographed holding hands in Los Angeles and later kissing in a drive-thru line in San Fernando, California.
A source told Us Weekly in February that the pair are deeply invested in their relationship and relieved to appear publicly together after past personal challenges. The source noted,
“They’re not officially living together but spending a lot of time together,”
reflecting how their connection was growing steadily.
Recent Personal Transitions for Both Stars
Sutton Foster filed for divorce from her husband Ted Griffin in October 2024, after almost ten years of marriage. The former couple shares an eight-year-old adopted daughter. Hugh Jackman separated from his wife of 27 years, Deborra-Lee Furness, in September 2023.
Jackman and Furness released a joint statement announcing their split, saying,
“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,”
and added,
“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,”
Rumors of the relationship’s influence on Jackman’s divorce circulated in November 2024. A source disclosed to Us Weekly that Foster and Jackman’s relationship contributed to the end of the marriage, stating,
“Sutton and Hugh’s relationship is the reason Hugh and Deb got divorced. A lot of people on Broadway knew, and we kept it quiet because both of them are so nice and great people. Everyone respected their privacy. But there was an affair and overlap.”
Deborra-Lee Furness Speaks on Her Divorce Experience
In May, Deborra-Lee Furness publicly addressed the divorce proceedings after filing herself, sharing her emotional perspective on the separation from Jackman. Speaking to the Daily Mail, she said,
“My heart and compassion goes out to everyone who has traversed the traumatic journey of betrayal,”
and continued,
“It’s a profound wound that cuts deep, however, I believe in a higher power and that God/the universe, whatever you relate to as your guidance, is always working FOR us,”
adding,
“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.”
Future Outlook for Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster’s Relationship
Their first public appearance together at a prominent Hollywood event signals a new chapter for Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster, following significant personal changes in their lives. As both actors continue their careers and navigate their evolving partnership, the public and fans are likely to watch closely for what comes next.
Given their strong professional ties and growing personal connection, this appearance could mark the beginning of more shared moments both on and off screen. The red carpet event at AFI Fest brought renewed attention to their relationship and individual journeys, making their future together a subject of interest in entertainment circles.
