Exploring the Family Life of Hugh Jackman: A Deep Dive into His Roots and Relationships

Hugh Jackman maintains a close-knit relationship with his siblings and has two younger family members. His familial bonds have played a significant role in shaping the person he is today.

Born as the youngest of five children, Hugh was raised by Grace McNeil and Christopher John Jackman. His siblings include two brothers, Ian and Ralph, and two sisters, Zoe and Sonia. The actor’s early life was marked by significant changes, including his parents’ separation when he was just eight years old.

Following the divorce, Hugh’s mother relocated from Australia back to England, taking her daughters with her, while Hugh and his brothers stayed with their father. Growing up in Australia, Hugh developed a passion for performing arts, which eventually led him to a successful acting career. His breakthrough came with the TV series Correlli, where he met his future wife, Deborra-Lee Furness. The couple married in 1996 after a year of dating.

Hugh and Deborra-Lee decided to expand their family through adoption, welcoming son Oscar Maximillian in 2000 and daughter Ava Eliot in 2005. After 27 years of marriage, the couple announced their separation in September 2023.

Scroll down to learn more about Hugh’s family members and their stories:

Father: Christopher John Jackman

Hugh shared a heartfelt tribute to his father, Christopher John, on Father’s Day in 2020, emphasizing the importance of integrity and keeping promises. Hugh recalled, “My father always taught me to honor my commitments, even when circumstances suggested I might benefit more from bending the rules. Always be truthful to your word.” Sadly, Christopher John passed away the following year.

In September 2021, Hugh expressed his grief publicly, writing, “My dad peacefully passed away on Father’s Day in Australia. While my heart is heavy, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and love. He dedicated his life to his family, his faith, and his work. I pray he is now at peace with God.”

Mother: Grace McNeil

After her departure to England, Hugh experienced a period of estrangement from his mother. In a 2012 interview with 60 Minutes Australia, he reflected on how life changed after her leaving, describing a sense of loss and longing. “The day she left, I received a telegram from England saying she was there. I thought she might return, but she never did. My father would pray every night for her to come back,” Hugh shared.

Years later, Hugh sought therapy to process his feelings about his mother’s departure. He has since mended their relationship, sharing warm photos of them together on social media and expressing gratitude for her presence in his life. In 2022, he told Who magazine, “Understanding and empathizing with my mother’s choices has helped me build stronger relationships with those I love.”

Brothers: Ian and Ralph Jackman

Ian Jackman

Ian has maintained a private life, working professionally as a legal expert before being appointed as a judge for the Federal Court of Australia in 2023. Despite his low profile, Hugh has spoken highly of his brother’s integrity and dedication.

Ralph Jackman

Similarly reserved, Ralph has kept his personal life out of the spotlight. Hugh shared a nostalgic photo of them as teenagers in 2017, captioning it, “Summer of 1980 with my brother Ralph. And yes, I still believe my jeans were the coolest.”

Sisters: Zoe and Sonia Jackman

Zoe Jackman

Although Hugh and Zoe did not grow up together, their bond has remained strong over the years. In August 2023, Hugh posted a heartfelt photo with Zoe, expressing his appreciation: “So grateful for my sister Zoe. She’s a constant source of support and love.”

Sonia Garrett

Sonia, married to stunt performer Rich Garrett, is also an author, known for her children’s book series The Maddie Series. Hugh publicly supported her work, sharing a photo of himself holding her latest book and praising her creativity. “I’m so proud of my sister Sonia, whose stories inspire children worldwide,” he wrote on Facebook in 2019.

Partner and Family: Deborra-Lee Furness

Hugh and Deborra-Lee married in 1996, forming a partnership rooted in mutual support and shared values. Their family grew with the adoption of Oscar in 2001 and Ava in 2005, following struggles with multiple miscarriages. Throughout the years, they have kept their children out of the media spotlight to protect their privacy.

After nearly three decades together, Hugh and Deborra-Lee announced their decision to separate in 2023, citing personal growth and new paths. Their joint statement read, “We have been blessed to share almost 30 years of love and partnership. Our journey now takes us in different directions, and we are committed to supporting each other.” Deborra-Lee filed for divorce in May 2025.

Son: Oscar Maximillian Jackman

Though Oscar prefers to stay out of the limelight, Hugh has shared anecdotes about their relationship. One memorable story involves Oscar, then around 13, asking his father to be his “wingman” at the beach. Hugh recounted, “He approached me, saying, ‘Dad, she’s coming over. Tell her you’re Wolverine,'” illustrating their playful and close bond.

Daughter: Ava Eliot Jackman

Like her brother, Ava leads a private life. Hugh has expressed his deep affection for her, emphasizing the special connection they share. “Having a daughter is a unique experience. I want her to grow up confident and safe, knowing she’s loved unconditionally,” he shared in a 2006 interview, highlighting the importance of nurturing her well-being.