Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster, known for their celebrated performances in the Broadway revival of Music Man, were recently seen enjoying a relaxed, laughter-filled dinner outing in Santa Monica, California. The duo, who arrived holding hands on January 6, appeared at ease, sparking speculation among fans as both have recently experienced personal transitions, making their outing a topic of intrigue.
A Low-Key Outing in Santa Monica
The pair embraced a low-key yet fashionable appearance for their night out. Jackman, 56, sported a dark jacket over a grey shirt paired with white jeans, while Foster, 49, looked chic in a tan trench coat over an olive dress. The two seemed completely at ease, sharing smiles and laughter, creating a buzz in the cozy Santa Monica dining scene.
This outing followed Jackman's attendance at one of the final performances of Foster’s Broadway-to-L.A. show Once Upon a Mattress, held at the Ahmanson Theatre on January 4. Jackman sat alongside Broadway legend Carol Burnett, who originated Foster’s role in the 1959 production. In a touching moment, Burnett, 91, waved and blew kisses to the audience as Jackman captured the memory on his phone, cementing his enthusiasm for Foster’s latest work.
From Broadway Bond to Real-Life Friendship
Jackman and Foster’s friendship blossomed during their time as co-stars in the 2022 revival of Music Man. The show, which ran from December 2021 to January 2023, garnered critical acclaim and highlighted their palpable onstage chemistry.
The admiration between the two has been mutual. Speaking to PEOPLE at the 2024 Drama Desk Awards, Foster lauded Jackman as "one of the greatest guys ever" and an "incredible costar." Jackman, in turn, has admitted being initially intimidated by Foster’s remarkable résumé, including six Tony nominations and two wins. During a joint 2022 interview on Late Night With Seth Meyers, Jackman humorously shared, “I watched everything she’s done. She’s amazing.”
Personal Transitions
Both stars are currently in new phases of their personal lives. Jackman announced his separation from Deborra-Lee Furness, his wife of 27 years, in September 2023. The former couple, who met on the set of Correlli in the 1990s, emphasized in a statement their commitment to maintaining love and respect as they pursue individual growth. Similarly, after a decade of marriage, Sutton Foster filed for divorce from screenwriter Ted Griffin in October 2023. These shared experiences of life changes may have further strengthened their bond, both personally and professionally.
Upcoming Plans
Jackman is preparing to return to the stage with his much-anticipated concert series, From New York, with Love. The performances, scheduled at New York’s iconic Radio City Music Hall starting January 24, will celebrate his love for live music and theater. Fans eagerly await this next chapter of his artistic journey.
Fresh off the success of Once Upon a Mattress, Foster remains a dominant force in the Broadway scene her versatility as an actress and singer keeps her at the forefront of theater, ensuring her fan base remains as dedicated as ever.
Conclusion
Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster’s recent dinner outing has reignited public curiosity about their friendship. Their shared history, mutual admiration, and personal journeys only adds intrigue to their bond. Whether it's through their past performances or their casual night out, Jackman and Foster continue to delight fans both on and off the stage.
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