Australian actress Deborra-Lee Furness is wholeheartedly embracing a new chapter of her life, which she has dubbed a 'man-free zone', following her separation from Hollywood star Hugh Jackman.
A New York State of Mind: Leaning on Girlfriends
The 69-year-old mother of two has been spotted in New York City, living it up with a tight-knit group of female friends. According to reports, Furness is prioritising these friendships over dating as she navigates life after her 27-year marriage. A source revealed that this period is 'strictly women only' for the actress, who is continuing what she calls her 'year of evolution'.
Furness was recently photographed looking relaxed and carefree during a stroll through Manhattan with her longtime friend and artistic collaborator, Sarah Sze. The pair were seen walking arm-in-arm, chatting and laughing. This outing is said to be one of many that have helped her rebuild after what was reportedly a 'traumatic' end to her marriage in 2023.
Stepping Out and Speaking Out
Furness has also been a presence at A-list events across the city. She attended the premiere of All Her Fault alongside friend and chef Mikaela Reuben and was later seen at a screening with Mickey Sumner, the daughter of musician Sting.
Speaking about her current focus, Furness has been open about the importance of her female support system. 'I say this to all women – your girlfriends are a necessity in life,' she told New Idea magazine.
While her ex-husband, 57-year-old Hugh Jackman, has moved on socially with Broadway star Sutton Foster, Furness is reportedly in no rush to return to the dating scene. A source told Daily Mail that despite receiving offers to go out and friends trying to set her up, dating 'is just not for her' at the moment.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
The insider elaborated, 'For decades, Deborra-Lee was certain that she had found her life-long companion,' adding that she 'never thought in a million years that she would be here, at this stage in her life, single.'
Instead of pursuing romance, friends say Furness is finding joy, confidence, and stability within her inner circle and is focusing on rediscovering her independence. The source confirmed she is not 'jaded by men' but is taking time to heal, having turned down dates from 'some incredible guys.'
Furness and Jackman met in 1995 on the set of the Australian TV show Correlli. He proposed just four months later, later revealing he knew within two weeks of meeting her that they were meant to be together. Their marriage began to falter during the Covid pandemic, around the same time Jackman struck up a friendship with his The Music Man co-star, Sutton Foster. The couple announced their separation in a joint statement in September 2023.
While the dust settles on her divorce, those close to her believe she will eventually be open to dating again. For now, however, Deborra-Lee Furness is content in her 'man-free zone,' powered by the strength of her female friendships.
