Happy birthday to Hugh Jackman: Celebrating some of his most memorable works

Few can hold a candle to the all-rounded talent and winning personality of Australia’s own Hugh Jackman. From being named 2008’s Sexiest Man Alive to receiving accolades from over five different award shows, Jackman’s skill as an actor is only matched by his generosity, having launched and supported several initiatives over the years for the betterment of the world.

Most of us will remember him for his prolific films, from musical ventures like The Greatest Showman to show-stopping performances like Les Misérables and The Boy from Oz. Have a look at some of our favourite works from his venerated portfolio and let us know which ones are your favourite!

The X-Men franchise

The world knows Hugh Jackman as the man behind the Wolverine, and it’s a role that we can’t imagine anyone else in. Jackman first starred as the clawed superhero in 2000, captivating audiences with a nuanced intensity and depth. Since then, he’s reprised his role across several films in the franchise and spin-off productions, including 2024’s Deadpool and Wolverine — a surprise for many after his character’s decisive end in Logan.

His portrayal of the character speaks volumes of his calibre as an actor, maintaining a peak physical form even at 56 years old. Having defined a generation of superheroes, we hope to see more of his work in this space as he returns to the fold.

The Greatest Showman

Starring alongside American powerhouses like Zendaya and Zac Efron, Jackman held his own against his musically-inclined co-stars with a powerful performance that brought him back to his roots as a stage performer.

With hit songs like This Is Me and A Million Dreams, Jackman delivered a vibrant portrayal that cemented his status as a showman for years to come in more ways than one.

Australia

Jackman returned to his patriotic roots in 2008 alongside fellow Australian Nicole Kidman in Baz Luhrman’s Australia, in which their exploration of the classic Australian outback was matched only by his rugged charm and chemistry with Kidman.

For us, it was an endearing film that brought us back from the international stage of film to the lands we call home. Through it, the colours of Jackman’s pride and passion for his home shone bright in an evocative performance that warmed the hearts of many.

Les Misérables

Jackman’s role in Les Misérables as Jean Valjean was no small feat, having secured him an Academy Award nomination. His demanding performance required a vocal strength not present in many actors, and only he could have pulled it off as well as he did.

His powerful renditions of songs like Bring Him Home and Who Am I brought audiences to tears, while his physical transformation for the role showcased his dedication to the craft. Jackman’s portrayal of the tortured, yet noble Valjean was widely praised, solidifying his reputation as one of the most versatile actors of his generation.

The Boy from Oz

Jackman’s foray into Broadway was supercharged by his roots as a stage performer, earning him a Tony Award for his role as Peter Allen in The Boy from Oz. With his infectious energy and charisma, Jackman captured the spirit of Allen, from his wild costumes to his larger-than-life personality.

The show’s success on Broadway and Jackman’s unforgettable performance reaffirmed his status as a true triple-threat: an actor, singer and dancer who could seamlessly transition between film and stage.