Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster are no longer keeping their relationship under wraps. On January 6, the duo was spotted holding hands during a date night in Santa Monica, Calif., marking their first public outing as a couple. The Deadpool & Wolverine star, 56, and the Broadway veteran, 49, appeared beaming as they enjoyed each other’s company.
Earlier in the evening, Jackman was seen attending Foster’s performance in Once Upon a Mattress, which recently transitioned from Broadway to Los Angeles. This move appears to have given the former costars the opportunity to embrace their relationship in the public eye after months of speculation.
A love story months in the making
Jackman and Foster’s romance reportedly began in the wake of their respective divorces in 2023. Jackman ended his 27-year marriage to Deborra-Lee Furness, while Foster announced the end of her decade-long marriage to screenwriter Ted Griffin in September.
An insider close to the couple revealed that the decision to go public wasn’t taken lightly. “It was all about timing and respecting their exes, but they felt they’d waited long enough,” the source said. “Hugh, for one, couldn’t stand all the sneaking around. It’s a relief to be able to show the world they’re in love and happy.”
Their connection reportedly blossomed during their time as costars on Broadway, but they waited until their respective marriages had officially ended to explore a relationship.
Mixed reactions to their romance
While their outing has delighted some fans, others have expressed mixed emotions about the relationship. Jackman’s long marriage to Furness had earned admiration over the years, leaving some supporters shocked by the split.
Complicating the narrative is the fact that Jackman and Foster are at different stages in their personal lives. Jackman’s two children with Furness are now adults, while Foster has a 7-year-old daughter from her previous marriage. Some fans and friends have questioned whether this dynamic might pose challenges in their new relationship.
“There are whispers that some of Hugh’s friends think this is just a midlife crisis,” the insider noted. However, those close to the couple insist their love is genuine and that both are deeply invested in their happiness together.
A hopeful future
Despite the chatter, Jackman and Foster are moving forward confidently. Their decision to step out publicly signals a desire to embrace their relationship fully, leaving behind months of secrecy.
For now, Jackman is focused on his upcoming role in Deadpool 3 while supporting Foster’s theater career. The couple appears committed to blending their lives, despite the challenges that may come with newfound public scrutiny.
As their story unfolds, Jackman and Foster seem determined to write the next chapter of their lives on their own terms.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.