Hollywood superstars Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds have officially joined forces as co-owners of Australia’s SailGP team, the BONDS Flying Roos, but it turns out the partnership has been in the works for months.
The announcement was finally unveiled this week – but not without months of behind-the-scenes tension.
Plans to announce the partnership were originally scheduled for January 2025.
However, the reveal was postponed as Jackman’s personal life unravelled in the public eye.
In May 2025, Jackman’s ex-wife, Deborra-Lee Furness, filed for divorce in New York.
The filing followed a September 2023 separation, ending a 27-year marriage that began in April 1996.
Soon after, Furness issued a searing public statement referring to a ‘traumatic journey of betrayal’ and a ‘profound wound.’
Her comments reportedly blindsided Jackman, who had expected a more discreet resolution.
The couple’s split came amid speculation about Jackman’s new relationship with Broadway co-star Sutton Foster.
Their romance became public in January 2025, further fuelling headlines and public interest.
Furness later claimed she felt betrayed, especially after Foster had tried to befriend her during the marriage.
The emotional fallout and media frenzy put Jackman’s professional ventures on pause.
The planned January announcement of his sports ownership with Reynolds was shelved due to the controversy.
Backers of the Australian SailGP team had hoped the noise would die down.
But as the headlines persisted, they opted to go ahead with the launch regardless – despite it becoming the worst possible timing.
Jackman and Reynolds are now officially the faces behind the rebranded BONDS Flying Roos.
Reynolds and Jackman released a cheeky joint statement filled with their trademark wit.
‘We’re incredibly excited to set sail together in this new adventure,’ they wrote.
‘Hugh brings a deep love for and pride in his home country as well as being an avid fan of sailing.’
‘He will also be bringing his overly clingy emotional support human along for the ride.’
‘Apologies in advance to Australia. No comment on whether we’re writing this in our BONDS. No further questions.’
The announcement comes as Wrexham, Reynolds’ football club, prepares for a pre-season tour of Australia.
It also adds another chapter to Reynolds’ growing portfolio, which includes Aviation Gin and a stake in Alpine Formula One.
Meanwhile, SailGP’s Australian crew, led by Tom Slingsby, are leading the current championship with 39 points.
Slingsby, who is also a co-owner and driver, welcomed Jackman and Reynolds with enthusiasm.
‘This is an incredible milestone for us and for our sport,’ Slingsby said.
‘They bring unmatched star power, a love for storytelling, and a sharp sense of humour.’
‘With BONDS joining as our Title Partner and the launch of the BONDS Flying Roos, we’re building something distinctly Australian.’
BONDS, now launched in the US with help from Robert Irwin, also sees the partnership as a defining moment.
Tanya Deans, president of BONDS, called Jackman ‘Australian royalty’ in her statement.
‘We’re thrilled to join forces with such an iconic duo,’ she said.
‘And how do you say no to Hugh Jackman?’
‘As we set sail on this new adventure, the BONDS Flying Roos have one less thing to worry about.’
‘We’ve got their backs – and bums – covered.’
The team’s official rebranded debut will take place at the Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix.
The event is scheduled to run across June 7 and 8.
