Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster ‘Shocked by the Backlash’ as Christmas Plans Fall Apart: ‘Stressful’

Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster would love to get together with their kids for the holidays but, according to a source speaking exclusively to Closer, the situation is still awkward and it’s going to take more time for loved ones to adjust to the new normal before that happens.

“They’re living apart because of the kids and they’re bracing themselves for way less time together than they’d like during the holidays.” the insider says.

The two began working with each other on the Broadway revival of The Magic Man in 2022. Since collaborating, rumors arose that the two were having an affair, which was reportedly called “Broadway’s worst-kept secret.” According to a different source who spoke to Us Weekly, their rumored romance “is the reason” he divorced Deborra-Lee Furness in September 2023.

Since their split, Hugh, 56, and his new flame, 49, have been taking things slow, but that doesn’t necessarily mean smooth. The Deadpool & Wolverine star’s ex wife released a statement saying, “Our journey is now shifting, and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth,” in response to Hugh filing for divorce last year.

Sutton also recently filed for divorce from her husband of 10 years, Ted Griffin, in October 2024. 

The first source notes that, even though the new couple knew it would be tough going forward, “They are a bit shocked by the backlash they received. They expected some of it, but not this much.” 

“But they’re figuring it out and are hopeful something can be worked out,” the insider continues. “There was a time when both families socialized before the stuff hit the fan but it’s tricky now. Even if they can’t open presents together on Christmas, Hugh and Sutton are talking of going off somewhere in the New Year, just the two of them, for some needed R&R.” 

According to reports, it’s unlikely Hugh and Sutton will get their wish of a “blended” Christmas with the X-Men star’s two children: son Oscar, 24, and daughter, Ava, 19. It may take more time for the families to adjust to the new situation and for the new couple to iron things out with their loved ones.

Despite all of the gossip and hurt feelings surrounding their relationship, a different source previously told Closer their romance is the real deal – enough to have perhaps broken up two marriages. 

“For Hugh, this isn’t just a fling, he’s completely captivated by Sutton and sees her as ‘The One,’” that insider said. “He’s been drawn to her for a long time and feels a deep connection that he just can’t ignore,” adding that Sutton’s “connection with Hugh was something no one saw coming. They fell in love, plain and simple.”

The tense situation has them caught between their passion for each other and stepping around the pain they’ve caused others. The first source adds they’re doing their best to minimize the discomfort, but this kind of thing can only be massaged so far, it’s still going to hurt.

“They do want to be together,” the source adds, “but at the same time they don’t want to push or hurt people. It’s a little stressful, to say the least.”