On May 4, 2026, the Met Gala in New York City witnessed a heartfelt celebration as Broadway star Sutton Foster made her debut at this prestigious fashion event alongside her partner, Hugh Jackman. While it was Foster’s first appearance at the Met Gala, Jackman, an experienced attendee, has graced the event many times previously.
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Dressed to impress, Foster shone in an exquisite gold metallic gown designed with a one-shoulder silhouette and elegant gathered details. The subtle slit added an air of sophistication to her ensemble, which she complemented with stunning jewellery by Fred Leighton. Meanwhile, Jackman opted for the timeless classic of a black tuxedo paired with a silver brooch, embodying the understated elegance typically seen at the gala.
Social media was abuzz prior to the event as Jackman shared a teaser of their outfits on Instagram, captioning it with the playful phrase, “Off to the #METGALA2026,” and tagging Foster. The couple’s appearance at this year’s gala was not only a personal milestone but also allowed them to showcase their burgeoning romance to a broader audience.
The 2026 Met Gala featured the theme “Fashion is Art,” inspired by the spring exhibition “Costume Art” at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This year’s dress code encouraged attendees to perceive their attire as a form of artistic expression, aiming to treat the body as a canvas. It was a perfect opportunity for designers and celebrity guests alike to explore how fashion can transform personal style into a visual narrative.
Hugh Jackman has attended the Met Gala several times, returning to the event regularly since his debut in 2004 with his ex-wife, Deborra-Lee Furness. However, his 2024 appearance, featuring a simple black-and-white tuxedo, marked his solo entrance to the illustrious gathering, signifying a new chapter in his life following his split from Furness, after 27 years of marriage.
The romance between Foster and Jackman, which blossomed from a longtime friendship, began to gain significant public attention after they were seen holding hands in January 2025, officially confirming their relationship. The couple had previously shared the stage in the 2022 Broadway production of “The Music Man,” where their friendship deepened into something more meaningful.
Their public debut on the red carpet occurred later, in October 2025, at the premiere of Jackman’s film “Song Sung Blue.” A source close to Foster shared at the time that both actors were enthusiastic about their future and the new chapter they were embarking on together. Since then, they have continued to appear publicly as a couple, including at the New York City premiere of Jackman’s latest film, “The Sheep Detectives.”
Both actors have navigated their respective personal challenges prior to this new relationship. Jackman finalised his separation from Furness in September 2023, with whom he shares two adult children. Foster filed for divorce from her ex-husband Ted Griffin in October 2024, with whom she shares a daughter, Emily, aged seven. Their journeys through divorce appear to have led to a supportive partnership, allowing them to find solace in one another.
In a beloved event that celebrates the fusion of glamour and artistry, Foster’s debut at the Met Gala serves as a symbol of not just her personal achievements but also the evolving connections within the entertainment industry. With their coordinated styles and mutual support evident, both Foster and Jackman continue to inspire their growing audience as they embrace the world of fashion together.