People had noticed one clue before Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness announced their separation after 27 years of marriage

Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness have revealed that they are parting ways after almost three decades of marriage.

In a joint statement with People, the couple expressed gratitude for the nearly 30 years of a wonderful, loving marriage, acknowledging that their journey is now taking a different direction as they choose to separate for individual growth.

“Our family has been and always will be our highest priority. We undertake this next chapter with gratitude, love, and kindness. We greatly appreciate your understanding in respecting our privacy as our family navigates this transition in all of our lives,” the statement read.

The couple, parents to Oscar, 23, and Ava, 18, exchanged vows in 1996.

Hugh Jackman, 54, and Deborra-Lee Furness, 67, first crossed paths in 1995 while working on the Australian TV series Correlli, with their relationship blossoming shortly afterward.

Jackman fondly recalled their first meeting, stating, “She took off her seatbelt and she turned around and put out her hand and took off her sunglasses and said, ‘Hi, I’m Deborra-lee Furness, nice to meet you.’ I remember thinking, ‘I like this girl.’”

Despite initial concerns about their 13-year age difference, the couple tied the knot on April 11, 1996, less than a year after meeting.

Their son Oscar was born in 2000, followed by the arrival of their daughter Ava in 2005.

Before the public announcement of their separation, some keen observers noticed a potential clue. Deborra-Lee Furness was spotted alone in New York City without her wedding ring, a detail that hinted at possible discord in the marriage. The absence of the wedding ring, especially during public outings, often signals marital issues.

The couple celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary in April, with Hugh Jackman sharing a heartwarming photo of them along with a touching message to Furness on social media.

“This is the sole statement either of us will make,” they concluded in their joint statement.

As they embark on this new chapter, fans wish them both the best in navigating this journey of change.