When Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster first stepped out together at the Fetch Pet Gala in New York City on October 20, fans thought it was just another friendly reunion between two Broadway icons. After all, the two starred together in The Music Man — their chemistry was undeniable, but it was always chalked up to acting. Now, just weeks later, shocking new photos have emerged that confirm their relationship is anything but platonic.

The internet is in meltdown mode after paparazzi photos surfaced showing Jackman and Foster in a series of surprisingly intimate moments — walking hand-in-hand through Central Park, sharing quiet laughter over coffee, and what appears to be a kiss caught just before ducking into a black SUV. It’s the kind of evidence fans had speculated about for months, but no one expected the two stars to actually go public this soon.

Jackman, 57, who announced his separation from longtime wife Deborra-Lee Furness last year, had kept his personal life extremely private since the split. Many assumed he would stay single for a while — focusing on film projects and rebuilding his life. But it seems the Australian superstar has found comfort and connection with someone who knows his world intimately.

Sutton Foster, 49, a Tony Award-winning actress best known for Younger and her Broadway brilliance, has also kept her romantic life under wraps. Known for her professionalism and down-to-earth nature, Foster rarely comments on her private affairs. However, sources close to the pair have confirmed that their bond grew naturally after The Music Man ended its run in early 2023.

“They stayed in touch after the show ended,” one insider revealed. “They were always close, but things shifted over the summer. They realized there was something more there. It’s not just friendship — it’s real affection.”

What shocked fans the most wasn’t that the two found love — but how comfortable they now seem being seen together. At the Fetch Pet Gala, the pair looked radiant, posing with rescue dogs, exchanging knowing smiles, and laughing together throughout the night. Witnesses described their chemistry as “undeniable” and their body language as “something that goes beyond friendship.”

Still, the public reveal has sparked controversy. Some critics have questioned the timing of Jackman’s new romance, suggesting it may have begun earlier than admitted. Others, however, have celebrated the relationship, calling it “a beautiful new chapter” for both stars. Social media has erupted with divided opinions — some fans cheering “love wins,” while others accuse Jackman of moving on “too fast.”

But amid the noise, one thing is clear: the couple seems unfazed. In recent days, Jackman was seen leaving Foster’s Manhattan apartment carrying a bouquet of sunflowers — her favorite — while she was spotted wearing a simple gold bracelet that eagle-eyed fans noticed Jackman had given her during The Music Man rehearsals.

Entertainment reporters are already calling them Broadway’s new power couple. And given their shared love of performance, music, and philanthropy, it’s not hard to imagine why. They both exude a genuine kindness and mutual respect that fans find refreshing — especially in an industry often full of showy, short-lived romances.

Neither Jackman nor Foster has made an official statement yet, but insiders claim that they’re “taking things slow and enjoying every moment together.” As one close friend reportedly said, “Hugh’s been through a lot this past year. Sutton’s brought a light back into his life.”

Whether this romance will last is anyone’s guess — but for now, the world is watching. After decades of friendship, years of shared stages, and months of speculation, Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster are finally stepping into the spotlight — this time, hand in hand.

And if the photos are any indication, this love story might just be one of the most unexpected (and heartwarming) plot twists Hollywood has seen in years.