The public romance between Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster is drawing significant criticism, fueled by the timing following Jackman’s highly publicized divorce from Deborra-Lee Furness. While the actors are openly affectionate in public, their relationship is being viewed by many fans as insensitive given the circumstances of their split.
The Timeline of Controversy
Jackman and Foster have been seen together frequently since his separation from Furness in September 2023, after 27 years of marriage. Recent footage from the 2025 Gotham Awards shows the pair engaging in intimate gestures – hand-holding and light physical touch – sparking immediate backlash online.
The controversy stems from rumors suggesting Jackman’s relationship with Foster began during his marriage. Foster herself filed for divorce in October 2024, after a decade with Ted Griffin. These events, combined with the timing of their public displays of affection, have led to widespread accusations of infidelity and insensitivity.
Public Reaction and Allegations
Social media reactions are overwhelmingly negative, with many users explicitly expressing support for Furness. Some accuse Jackman and Foster of performative romance, suggesting their displays are calculated for publicity rather than genuine affection. One X user described the PDA as “staged,” noting a noticeable shift in behavior when they realized they were being recorded.
Furness herself has hinted at infidelity in a May 2025 statement to the Daily Mail, though she did not directly name Foster. Her cryptic remark about “traumatic betrayal” has further fueled speculation and resentment toward Jackman and his new partner.
Career Implications
The scandal could have professional repercussions for Jackman, who is currently seeking an Oscar nomination for his film Song Sung Blue. Academy voters are known to consider personal controversies when evaluating nominees, and the negative press surrounding his relationship could damage his chances.
Despite the backlash, Jackman and Foster appear unfazed, continuing to publicly flaunt their romance. Whether this will ultimately harm his career remains to be seen, but the situation highlights the risks of public scandal in Hollywood.
In conclusion, while the couple seems determined to move forward, their relationship is being met with widespread disapproval, particularly from those sympathetic to Jackman’s ex-wife. The controversy underscores how quickly public perception can turn in the face of perceived betrayal and insensitivity.
