The Tragic Truth About Hugh Jackman

Hugh Jackman may seem to have it all as a famous Hollywood star, but the actor’s life has been far from perfect. In fact, Jackman faced tragedy early on when his mother, Grace McNeil, walked out on her family in Australia and moved back to England when he was just 8 years old. During an interview with The Australian Women’s Weekly, the “Logan” star explained, “At the time, it was difficult.” He continued, “One of the main things I remember is that horrible feeling that people were talking about you and looking at you because it was odd for the mother to leave.”

As a young child, Jackman was initially in denial about his mother leaving, telling The Australian Women’s Weekly, “Up until about the age of 12 or 13, I thought Mom and Dad would get back together.” He explained, “Finally realizing it wasn’t going to happen was probably the toughest time to be honest.” He also revealed to the publication that his mother had been experiencing postnatal depression following his birth, struggling to raise five children in a country far away from her home, eventually leading her to leave the family. They have since reconciled, and the actor credits having his own kids with repairing his relationship with his estranged mom.