Deborra-Lee Furness Biography: Born on November 30, 1955, in Annandale, New South Wales, Australia, Deborra-Lee Furness is an accomplished actress, director, and producer whose career has spanned more than four decades. Beyond her work in film and television, she is widely recognized for her tireless advocacy for adoption and children’s rights, both in Australia and globally. She serves as an ambassador for World Vision and was honored by the United Nations Women for Peace Association in 2017 for her advocacy and work with the non-profit organization Hopeland.
Deborra-Lee Furness Biography
Deborra-Lee Furness, born on November 30, 1955, in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, is an accomplished actress and producer. She is best known for her work in Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole (2010), Shame (1988), and Jindabyne (2006). She met her future husband, Hugh Jackman, in 1995 while co-starring in the television series Correlli, and the couple married on April 11, 1996. Together, they have two adopted children: a son, Oscar Maximillian Jackman (born May 15, 2000, adopted in May 2000), and a daughter, Ava Eliot Jackman (born July 10, 2005, adopted in July 2005). Furness is a graduate of the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York and is a dedicated humanitarian.
Deborra-Lee Furness Biography 2025 Details
| Born | 30 November 1955
Annandale, New South Wales, Australia
|
|---|---|
| Years active | 1975–present |
| Spouse |
Hugh Jackman
(m. 1996; sep. 2023)
|
| Children | 2 |
| Category | Singers Bio |
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About Deborra-Lee Furness
Deborra-Lee Furness Jackman, AO is an Australian actress and producer.
Deborra-Lee Furness Wiki
- Born: 30 November 1955 (age 69 years), Annandale, Australia
- Spouse: Hugh Jackman (m. 1996–2023)
- Children: Ava Eliot Jackman, Oscar Maximilian Jackman
- Height: 1.73 m
- Parents: Fay Duncan
Early Life
Born in Annandale, a suburb of Sydney, New South Wales, Furness was raised in Melbourne, Victoria. At 18, following her mother’s advice to have a fallback plan in case acting didn’t work out, she enrolled in secretarial school to learn shorthand and typing. She soon landed a job as an assistant to John Sorell, the news director at Channel 9. Despite modestly describing herself as “such a bog secretary,” Furness found the fast-paced and energetic environment of the newsroom exhilarating.
After about a year, she transitioned to working on No Man’s Land, a daytime current affairs program produced entirely by women and hosted by Mickie de Stoop. She started as a researcher and eventually became an on-air reporter. After her stint in broadcasting, Furness spent a year traveling through Europe. She later pursued formal acting training at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, graduating in either 1981 or 1982.
Key Information
| Attribute | Detail |
| Full Name | Deborra-Lee Furness Jackman |
| Birth Date | November 30, 1955 |
| Birthplace | Annandale, New South Wales, Australia |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Children | Oscar Maximillian and Ava Eliot (both adopted) |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $50 million |
Education
Deborra-Lee was raised in Melbourne and encouraged by her mother to learn practical skills, leading her to attend secretarial school at 18. She began her career in journalism, working as an assistant and later as a reporter for Channel 9’s No Man’s Land. After a year of traveling through Europe, she pursued her passion for acting in New York City, graduating from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in the early 1980s.
Career Highlights and Breakthroughs
Furness made her television debut in the mid-1970s with roles in Australian series like Division 4 and The Flying Doctors. Her breakout role came in 1988 with Shame, earning her international acclaim and several Best Actress awards. She followed with roles in Newsies (1992), Jindabyne (2006), and Legend of the Guardians (2010). On TV, she appeared in popular series such as Neighbours, Correlli, and Hyde & Seek. Her versatility also extends to behind-the-camera work. In addition to acting, she has directed and produced films and television projects, showcasing her broad creative range.
Awards and Achievements
Deborra-Lee’s performance in Shame remains a cornerstone of her career. She received accolades from the Seattle International Film Festival and the Film Critics Circle of Australia. In 2014, she was named New South Wales Australian of the Year in recognition of her efforts to reform adoption laws and support vulnerable children.
Personal Life and Relationships
Deborra-Lee met Hugh Jackman in 1995 while working on the TV drama Correlli, and they married the following year. After experiencing two miscarriages, the couple adopted two children, Oscar and Ava. Their marriage lasted 27 years before their separation was announced in September 2023. Despite the personal transition, Furness continues to focus on her philanthropic and creative pursuits.
Interesting Facts
- Furness has been a leading voice for adoption reform, particularly in Australia.
- She supports several charities and environmental causes.
- In 2016, she directed The Waiting Room, expanding her footprint in film direction.
- Known for her low-profile lifestyle, she chooses to focus on advocacy over fame.
Philanthropy and Legacy
Furness is deeply committed to child welfare, working with organizations like World Vision and Hopeland. She has led high-profile campaigns to improve adoption systems and championed the rights of orphaned and foster children. Her legacy is defined as much by her humanitarian work as her screen performances. Her advocacy earned her widespread respect and awards, reinforcing her position as not only a talented artist but also a compassionate public figure.
Looking Ahead
Following her recent personal changes, Deborra-Lee continues to explore opportunities behind the camera and remains active in her philanthropic endeavors. While she may take fewer acting roles, her influence as an advocate and cultural figure remains strong.
Deborra-Lee Furness Net Worth 2025
With an estimated net worth of $50 million, Furness has built considerable wealth through her film, television, and production ventures. A notable investment includes a $21 million New York City triplex purchased in 2012 with Hugh Jackman. The property, along with a newer penthouse purchase in Chelsea, reflects her success and stable financial standing.
FAQs
What is Deborra-Lee Furness known for besides acting?
Aside from her successful acting career, Deborra-Lee Furness is widely recognized for her advocacy in adoption reform and child welfare. She has worked with various charitable organizations and was named New South Wales Australian of the Year in 2014 for her efforts.
How old is Deborra-Lee Furness now?
Deborra-Lee Furness was born on November 30, 1955, which makes her 69 years old as of 2025.
What is Deborra-Lee Furness’ estimated net worth?
Her estimated net worth is around $50 million, which comes from decades of work as an actress, producer, and director, as well as investments in high-value real estate.
Did Deborra-Lee Furness direct any films or TV shows?
Yes, Deborra-Lee Furness has directed several projects, including the short film The Waiting Room in 2016 and multiple episodes of Neighbours in 2020, showcasing her talent behind the camera.
What inspired Deborra-Lee Furness to become an adoption advocate?
Her personal experience with adoption, having adopted two children with Hugh Jackman, inspired her advocacy. She has since become a leading voice for adoption reform and child welfare in Australia.
Where did Deborra-Lee Furness study acting?
She studied acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, where she graduated in the early 1980s before launching her international career.