Hugh Jackman is reportedly ready to take the next step in his relationship with Sutton Foster, but a major obstacle stands in the way: Foster's estranged husband, screenwriter Ted Griffin. According to a new report, the actor is now working to establish a positive relationship with Griffin, hoping to convince him to sign off on divorce papers that would allow Jackman and Foster to move forward with their marriage plans.
The news comes as sources reveal that Foster's ongoing divorce from Griffin has become a dark cloud over her romance with the Oscar-nominated actor. Jackman, who finalized his own divorce from Deborra-Lee Furness in June 2025, is reportedly determined to do whatever it takes to clear the path toward a future with Foster.
Jackman's Plan to Win Over Ted Griffin
According to a source cited by Globe Magazine, Jackman has spent time with Griffin socially in the past and the two men once shared a good rapport. However, the dynamic has shifted significantly now that Jackman is romantically involved with Griffin's estranged wife. Despite that, Jackman is hoping to rekindle a friendly connection.
"Hugh has spent time in the past with Ted socially, and they did have a good rapport, but obviously things are much different now that Hugh is with his ex-wife," the source explained. "Still, Hugh is hoping that he can find a way to get Ted to give him a chance."
The report suggests that Jackman is not just looking for a signature on legal documents but genuinely wants to establish a healthy relationship with Griffin. "He really would like to have a friendly relationship with Ted, and he knows Sutton would love it if they were all on good terms, so he intends to swallow his pride and do whatever needs to be done to make peace with Ted," the source added.
This attempt at bridge-building is seen as a strategic move to resolve the growing frustration caused by the delayed divorce proceedings. The source noted that Foster's divorce has been "dragging on for long," which has inevitably affected the atmosphere around Jackman and Foster's relationship. "Of course Hugh wishes the circumstances were different, but he can't change the fact that he and Sutton fell in love and he wants to marry her," the source stated.
Sutton Foster and Ted Griffin's Complicated Divorce
Sutton Foster filed for divorce from Ted Griffin in October 2024 after ten years of marriage, citing irreconcilable differences. The split initially appeared amicable, but negotiations have become increasingly complicated over time, according to insiders. The prolonged process is now impacting the plans Jackman and Foster have made for their future together.
The Broadway star and the screenwriter were married in 2014 and have one daughter together. Griffin, known for his work on films like Ocean's Eleven and The Wolf of Wall Street, has largely stayed out of the public eye during the divorce proceedings. However, his cooperation is apparently essential for the divorce to be finalized, and without his sign-off, Jackman and Foster cannot proceed with their alleged wedding plans.
Foster's decision to file for divorce came after months of speculation about her relationship with Jackman. The two actors co-starred in the Broadway revival of The Music Man from 2021 to early 2023, and rumors of an off-stage romance began swirling long before either separation was announced. They were both still married at the time, which has led to intense scrutiny and allegations that they were unfaithful to their partners.
Jackman's Own Divorce History
Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness announced their separation in September 2023 after 27 years of marriage. The couple's split was finalized in June 2025, and reports have described the proceedings as expensive and emotionally draining. The actor's divorce was heavily publicized, with sources claiming that the narrative of personal betrayal added to the complexity of the legal battle.
Following his divorce, Jackman faced mounting financial pressure, according to reports. The actor's intense work ethic has reportedly intensified as he works to rebuild his finances, which has created additional friction in his relationship with Foster.
Cheating Allegations and Public Scrutiny
The romance between Jackman and Foster became public in January 2025, confirming months of intense speculation. However, the couple's relationship has been plagued by allegations that they began seeing each other while they were still married to their respective spouses. Jackman and Foster have not directly addressed these accusations, but the controversy has followed them throughout their relationship.
Foster's divorce from Griffin was initially filed as uncontested, but it has yet to be finalized. The delay has fueled further speculation about the reasons behind the stalled proceedings. Some insiders suggest that the public nature of Foster's new relationship has complicated matters, while others contend that the legal issues are simply taking longer than expected due to the involved parties' schedules.
For Jackman, the situation is delicate. He has reportedly expressed a desire to avoid any actions that could further antagonize Griffin. The actor's willingness to "swallow his pride" indicates that he understands the importance of having Griffin's cooperation. Without it, the path to marriage remains blocked.
Other Romance Issues Confronting the Couple
Beyond the divorce drama, Jackman and Foster have reportedly faced other challenges in their relationship. In June 2025, a report claimed that the couple was going through a rough patch. Insiders told Woman's Day that Jackman's relentless work ethic was creating significant friction between the two.
The actor's drive to take on endless projects reportedly intensified after his expensive legal split from Furness. Foster, who is a major Broadway star herself and fully understands the demands of a performing career, originally agreed to a temporary period of intense work before the couple planned to pause and focus on wedding arrangements. However, Jackman's schedule has allegedly become unmanageable, leaving Foster feeling isolated and frustrated.
"Sadly, the biggest casualty of all is Hugh and Sutton finding quality time together — they're like passing ships sometimes," a source said at the time. The lack of time for the couple to nurture their romance has become a concern for their inner circle, with friends reportedly fearing that the distance is doing more harm than good.
The combination of Foster's unresolved divorce and Jackman's demanding work schedule has placed significant strain on their relationship. Yet, according to the latest reports, the couple remains committed to each other and eager to take the next formal step in their relationship.
All Eyes on Ted Griffin
For now, the ball appears to be in Ted Griffin's court. Whether he will sign off on the divorce that would allow Jackman and Foster to marry remains the key question. Jackman, on the other hand, is reportedly prepared to do whatever it takes to make that happen, even if it means a significant blow to his pride.
"They are eager to take that next formal step, so Hugh really needs Ted to play ball and sign off on the deal," a source noted. The couple's friends and family are reportedly hoping for a resolution that allows everyone to move forward without further animosity.
Jackman's willingness to personally engage with Griffin could prove pivotal. By reaching out and attempting to establish a friendly relationship, the actor is demonstrating his dedication to Foster and his understanding of the importance of maintaining civility for the sake of their shared connections.
Whether this approach will succeed remains to be seen, but sources indicate that Jackman is determined to make it work. The actor reportedly understands that his future happiness with Foster depends on resolving the past, and he is ready to do what it takes to build a foundation for their life together.
The coming weeks could be critical as all parties involved work toward a resolution. Both Jackman and Foster are said to be eager to formalize their relationship and move past the drama that has overshadowed their romance.
Source: MSN News