Hugh Jackman’s family dynamics are shifting as his children grapple with their father’s rumored new relationship with Broadway star Sutton Foster. Just over a year after his split from long-time wife Deborra-Lee Furness, Jackman’s children, Oscar and Ava, are reportedly adapting to the changes with mixed emotions.
Sources close to the family reveal the challenges the siblings face as they navigate the inclusion of Foster, whom Jackman has been getting close to, saying, “It’s been hard for the kids, having to welcome Sutton...with their own mixed feelings about it, enquanto se sentir culpado se se aproximam demais,” reported by Woman’s Day.
Currently, Jackman is enjoying the holiday season with Oscar, 24, and Ava, 19, at his $12 million penthouse located on the stunning shores of North Bondi, Australia. Meanwhile, Foster is performing calmly across the country, staying busy with her role in the stage production Once Upon A Mattress in Los Angeles. Reports suggest their relationship is growing, but the distance complicates the situation.
The tension extends to Jackman’s ex-wife, Deborra-Lee Furness, who is allegedly feeling blindsided by her ex-husband’s new romance. An insider noted, “Deb feels blindsided...isn’t afraid to use it,” reported by RadarOnline. This sense of surprise may be compounded by Jackman's circle of friends; she blames them for keeping her out of the loop as the relationship evolved.
During this holiday season, Hugh is determined to prioritize his children’s well-being as they come to grips with the new family dynamic. A source tells New Idea, “It’s getting messy, but Hugh’s hoping time heals all wounds...they’ll be smoother waters coming to the new year.” The actor’s decision to spend Christmas without Foster is reflective of this priority; he feels it is too soon to bring her to Australia to meet the kids under these circumstances.
Both Oscar and Ava are feeling torn, with sources reporting their guilt as they welcome Sutton, creating what they call “mixed feelings.” Describing the situation, the source added, “It’s all getting a bit messy,” indicating they hope to navigate these waters carefully moving forward.
This moment is especially significant as Jackman’s split from Furness was made public last September after nearly three decades together, during which they built their family. Jackman and Furness issued joint statements emphasizing their amicable separation and the loving environment they wish to continue for their children. Now, what was once their co-parenting strategy faces new challenges as Jackman explores new romance.
Jackman and Foster's relationship reportedly began blossoming away from the public eye after their collaboration on Broadway’s The Music Man. They first sparked rumors during the production, which ended with fans speculating about the nature of their relationship. Following their respective separations, both have reportedly leaned on each other for support. Foster filed for divorce from her husband Ted Griffin shortly after news broke of Jackman’s split.
Despite the challenges, Jackman’s bond with Foster is reportedly growing stronger as he takes his time to introduce her to his children. For now, he is choosing to maintain their connection through daily phone calls and messages, providing opportunities to keep their relationship healthy without overwhelming his children. “Hugh is going to use this time away to regroup and reflect on the huge changes,” another source mentioned, highlighting his desire to be measured with his engagement with Foster.
With Oscar and Ava spending quality time with their father, Jackman hopes their time together will strengthen the family unit. They have enjoyed the scenic beaches and the holiday spirit of Sydney, which serves as a backdrop for their process of healing. Jackman recognizes the need to maintain balance, explaining, “It’s a delicate balancing act,” as he navigates between spending quality time with his children and pursuing his new relationship.
While the holidays may be complicated this year, Jackman is determined to create cherished memories with Oscar and Ava, appreciating the joyous opportunity to bond with them during this significant time. He understands they may face more adjustments as Foster becomes more integrated, but feels optimistic about the future. “The kids really needed this holiday with their dad,” said the source, affirming their emotional needs.
With the New Year approaching, Jackman and his family stand at the precipice of change, handling emotions surrounding love, growth, and new connections. There’s hope among those close to the family: if they can navigate this holiday without turmoil, smoother waters await as they embrace what lies ahead, sharing these significant moments as they adjust to their new normal.
