After 27 years of marriage, Hollywood actor Hugh Jackman and his wife Deborra-Lee Furness have announced their separation. The couple revealed their decision in a joint statement to People magazine, citing the need to pursue their individual growth as the reason for their separation. The news came as a shock to many, as Jackman and Furness have been known to have a strong and loving relationship.

The couple, both hailing from Australia, first crossed paths in 1995 when Jackman was still an up-and-coming actor and Furness was already an established star. They tied the knot the following year and went on to have two children together, Oscar, 23, and Ava, 18. Family has always been a priority for the couple, as emphasized in their statement where they expressed gratitude, love, and kindness towards each other and their children.

Jackman, widely recognized for his portrayal of Wolverine in the “X-Men” movies and his successful Broadway career, has achieved great success throughout his career. Despite his fame, Jackman comes from a non-showbiz background, as his parents immigrated from England to Australia in the 1960s. It was on the set of an Australian TV show that Jackman and Furness first connected, leading to a love story that lasted nearly three decades.

The actor has never been shy about expressing his love and admiration for his wife. In April, he took to Instagram to celebrate their 27th wedding anniversary, writing a heartfelt message. He described Furness as his partner in creating a beautiful family and thanked her for the incredible gifts she brings into his life. The post showcased the couple's enduring love and happiness.

Their separation marks a significant shift in their lives, but Jackman and Furness have assured the public that they will handle this transition with grace and respect. They kindly requested privacy as they navigate this new chapter, emphasizing that their family remains their highest priority.

Fans and followers of the couple were taken aback by the news, as Jackman has previously spoken about the strength and ease of their marriage. In an interview with Hoda Kotb on "Today," he expressed how their relationship didn't feel like work and praised Furness for her optimistic and joyful nature. The couple seemed to share a deep bond that went beyond their careers and public personas.

Despite the separation, Jackman concluded his Instagram post on their 25th wedding anniversary reaffirming their love and commitment to each other. He expressed gratitude for sharing their lives, adventures, and family together, hinting at a sense of hope for the future.

As news of their separation spreads, fans and well-wishers are left with mixed emotions. While saddened by the end of such a long-lasting marriage, many are hopeful that Jackman and Furness will find happiness and fulfillment in their individual journeys.