In a stunning twist to what was once considered one of Hollywood’s most enduring love stories, insiders now claim that Hugh Jackman’s reaction to his split from wife Deborra-Lee Furness was far from amicable — with allegations emerging that she broke a “secret agreement” the pair had made long ago.

The couple, who were married for 27 years, announced their separation in September 2023 in a joint statement that emphasized mutual respect and love. But behind closed doors, sources say Hugh Jackman was “devastated and blindsided” by the timing and nature of the divorce — and especially by what he reportedly views as a breach of trust.

The Public Statement vs. Private Pain

When the divorce was made public, the pair released a carefully worded message:

“We have been blessed to share almost three 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.”

At the time, fans praised the civility of their approach. But now, more than six months later, new reports are surfacing that paint a much more emotionally charged and complex picture behind the scenes.

The “Secret Agreement”

According to multiple sources close to the couple, Hugh and Deborra-Lee allegedly had a long-standing personal agreement that they would never divorce — no matter how hard things got — until their two children, Oscar and Ava, had reached a certain stage in life.

“It wasn’t a legal contract,” one insider said. “But it was deeply emotional — a shared vow. Hugh took it incredibly seriously.”

Their son Oscar is now in his 20s, and Ava is in her late teens, which technically fulfills the condition. However, Hugh reportedly felt blindsided by the suddenness of Deborra-Lee’s decision to formally file for divorce, especially after what he thought was a mutual understanding to stay united as a family.

“He thought they were still working through things,” the source added. “It felt like a quiet betrayal.”

Hugh’s Emotional Response

Behind the Australian actor’s composed public appearance lies what friends describe as a man struggling with grief and disillusionment. According to those in Jackman’s inner circle, he believed their marriage, while strained at times, was still salvageable.

“He’s not angry in the dramatic, yelling sense,” said one longtime friend. “But he’s heartbroken. He thought Deb would always be by his side.”

In the months following the separation, Jackman reportedly threw himself into work, including his return to the Deadpool 3 set, where he reprises his role as Wolverine. Still, colleagues say his usual energy and charisma have dimmed, and that he’s been “quietly nursing the emotional blow” from the divorce.

A Life of Loyalty

Throughout their 27-year marriage, Hugh Jackman frequently praised Deborra-Lee in interviews, crediting her for grounding him as his career soared to global fame. He often referred to her as “the greatest woman alive” and said they never spent more than two weeks apart.

The couple first met in 1995 on the set of the Australian TV series Correlli. At the time, Deborra-Lee was already a respected actress, while Hugh was just beginning his career. Their bond was immediate, and they married the following year.

“Everything I am is because of her,” Jackman once said. “I owe her everything.”

This long history makes the reported breach of their private agreement even more painful for Jackman.

What’s Next?

Sources close to Deborra-Lee Furness say she’s focused on rediscovering her independence, having put much of her career on hold during Jackman’s rise in Hollywood. While not denying the emotional toll of the separation, they emphasize that she needed to choose her own path after decades of being seen as “Hugh Jackman’s wife.”

“She spent nearly three decades in his shadow,” said a source. “This is her time now.”

As for Hugh Jackman, those close to him say he remains committed to his children and is focused on healing. He’s also considering a memoir that may delve into his personal life — though no official announcement has been made.

Final Thoughts

Though the public breakup of Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness initially appeared respectful and drama-free, recent revelations suggest a much deeper emotional wound beneath the surface. With whispers of broken personal vows and emotional betrayal, the end of their marriage may mark not just a separation of two people — but the painful unraveling of a deeply cherished promise.