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'Devastated' Hugh Jackman says 'it's a difficult time' soon after announcing end of 'loving marriage'

Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness, who met on the sets of an Australian TV series in 1995, announced their split on Friday, September 15

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Hugh Jackman is 'devastated' and going through a 'difficult time' after the 'X Man' star and her wife Deborra-Lee Furness who have been married for 27 announced they were splitting. 

The couple, who met on the sets of an Australian TV series in 1995, announced their split on Friday, September 15, as per People. 

Was Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness' split anticipated? 

Even the couple's fans were taken by surprise given their good chemistry with many sharing their fun moments together as recently as a year ago. 

However, the insiders revealed to the publication that the separation was “a long time coming” and that their friends and family knew about it for a while. 

The source also said that Furness, 67, was rarely seen at Jackman’s rehearsals for the Broadway show 'The Music Man' and even fell asleep during some of them.

In the statement they further said they have been “blessed to share almost three decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage” but now their “journey is shifting” and they want to “pursue their individual growth.”

They also said their family “has been and always will be [their] highest priority” and asked for privacy as they navigate through this transition.

Has Hugh Jackman shunned his wedding ring? 

On Saturday, 'The Wolverine' actor was spotted walking in New York City without his wedding ring.

In a video obtained by Page Six, he told the paparazzi that he was going through a “difficult time” before continuing his stroll.

He wore a dark T-shirt, black jeans, black sneakers and sunglasses.

The publication, citing a source close to Jackman, said that the star was feeling 'devastated.' 

Hugh Jackman's heartfelt anniversary wish to Deborra-Lee Furness in April

The former couple share two adopted children: Oscar Maximilian Jackman, 23, and Ava Eliot Jackman, 18.

Hugh Jackman posted in April on Instagram wishing Deborra-Lee Furness a happy 27th anniversary along with a photo of the couple.

“I love you Deb. Today is our 27th wedding anniversary. 27 YEARS!! I love you so much," he wrote.

"Together we have created a beautiful family. And life. Your laughter, your spirit, generosity, humour, cheekiness, courage and loyalty is an incredible gift to me,” Jackman continued.