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Entertainment • Actor

Deborra-Lee Furness

Deborra-Lee Furness is an Australian actress and producer known for her film and television work, as well as her advocacy for adoption reform and children’s causes.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Deborra-Lee Furness is an Australian actress and producer known for her film and television work, as well as her advocacy for adoption reform and children’s causes. She was born in Sydney in 1955 and was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2022. She was previously married to actor Hugh Jackman.

Early life and education

Deborra-Lee Furness was born in Sydney, Australia, in 1955. Sources also note that she trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York.

Acting career

Furness has worked in film and television since the mid-1970s. She is credited with roles in productions such as Shame, Jindabyne, and Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole.

Advocacy and public work

Furness has been publicly associated with adoption reform and children’s advocacy in Australia. The National Museum of Australia notes her work in establishing National Adoption Awareness Week and launching Adopt Change.

Personal life

Furness married actor Hugh Jackman in 1996. The couple announced their separation in 2023 after 27 years together.

Key facts

  • Born in Sydney, New South Wales, in 1955.
  • Built a career as an Australian actress and producer.
  • Known for roles in films including Shame, Jindabyne, and Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole.
  • Was married to actor Hugh Jackman from 1996 until their separation in 2023.
  • Received an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2022.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Deborra-Lee Furness?
She is an Australian actress and producer known for screen roles and advocacy work.
When was Deborra-Lee Furness born?
She was born on 30 November 1955.
Where was Deborra-Lee Furness born?
She was born in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
What is Deborra-Lee Furness known for?
She is known for acting in films such as Shame and Jindabyne, and for her adoption advocacy.
Was Deborra-Lee Furness married to Hugh Jackman?
Yes. They married in 1996 and announced their separation in 2023.
Has Deborra-Lee Furness received an honour in Australia?
Yes. She was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2022.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deborra-Lee_Furness
    Supports: Birth date, occupation as actress and producer, and AO honour.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0299028/
    Supports: Birthplace, occupation, selected known works, and marriage to Hugh Jackman.
  3. National Museum of Australia — https://www.nma.gov.au/exhibitions/2015-australian-of-the-year/deborra-lee-furness
    Supports: Adoption advocacy, National Adoption Awareness Week, Adopt Change, and children’s rights work.
  4. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Deborra-Lee-Furness
    Supports: Australian actress identification and marriage to Hugh Jackman.