Nicole Kidman, a co-chair for the 2026 Met Gala, allegedly maintained a deliberate distance from Hugh Jackman and his girlfriend, Sutton Foster, at the event. This apparent avoidance, according to multiple insider accounts published on May 8, 2026, stems from a perceived loyalty to Jackman's ex-wife, Deborra-Lee Furness. Sources speaking to Rob Shuter's 'Naughty But Nice' Substack claim Kidman's actions were intended to preempt any "drama" and avoid appearing to endorse Jackman's new public relationship.
The core assertion is that Kidman, positioned prominently as a co-chair, strategically avoided interaction with Jackman and Foster, signaling a stance of solidarity with Furness, who has reportedly felt hurt by the public nature of Jackman's new romance following their nearly three-decade marriage and subsequent divorce, finalized in June 2025.
A Calculated Distance
The accounts suggest Kidman did not behave rudely but instead "kept her distance." This strategic maneuvering occurred against a backdrop of broader commentary among some guests regarding the "abrupt end" of Jackman's marriage. Jackman and Foster, who confirmed their relationship publicly and made their Met Gala debut as a couple on Monday, May 4, 2026, drew attention, with insiders noting that "plenty of people inside the room were still whispering" about the split.
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Kidman's daughter, Sunday Rose, also attended the gala with her.
Jackman and Foster’s appearance marked a significant public step for their relationship after its confirmation.
Rumors have circulated about potential wedding plans for Jackman and Foster.
Echoes of 'Betrayal'
The sentiment reportedly fueling Kidman's alleged avoidance is linked to a comment by Furness described as a "'betrayal' comment," which "was not forgotten in Hollywood." This perception suggests that a significant portion of those familiar with the situation felt Jackman "did her wrong," with Kidman being identified as a particularly "protective" friend of Furness.
Jackman and Furness announced their separation in September 2023.
Their divorce was finalized in June 2025, after 27 years of marriage.
Jackman's relationship with Foster reportedly began in late 2024.
Context of the Event
The Met Gala, held at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, is a high-profile event where celebrity appearances are closely scrutinized. Jackman and Foster's presence as a couple was a notable aspect of the evening. Kidman, a prominent figure and co-chair alongside Beyoncé, Anna Wintour, and Venus Williams, was in a position to either blend in or subtly make a statement. Reports indicate a focus on Kidman's fashion and her role as co-chair, with one article noting she was "mocked for being 'unintentionally hilarious'" regarding her description of her outfit, a detail separate from the alleged avoidance.
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Jackman and Furness had attended multiple Met Galas together in the past, with their last joint appearance noted in 2023.
Some reports suggest organizers were previously concerned about potential awkward encounters or "panic" over Jackman attending with Foster, especially if Furness were also present, though Furness's attendance was not confirmed in relation to this specific avoidance incident.
