Hugh Jackman, Wife Deborra-lee ‘Devastated’ After Announcing Breakup: ‘Not a Snap Decision’ (Exclusive)

Hugh Jackman and wife Deborra-lee Jackman’s decision to divorce was not made without a lot of thought and careful consideration.

Although the mutual decision was amicable, a source close to the couple tells PEOPLE that they are “heartbroken” and that the split is “very difficult.”

“It wasn’t a quick decision – they took a lot of time and thought about everything, and they made this decision together,” the source added. “They go on separate journeys, but they will always be family. They will always be co-parents and best friends.”

As their relationship begins a new chapter, Hugh, 54, and Deb, 67 — who share son Oscar, 23, and daughter Ava, 18 — hold no grudges.

“This has nothing to do with anything other than the fact that they are currently on different trips,” the insider said.

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Hugh and Deborra-Lee Jackman at the Tony Awards in New York City on June 10, 2012. Kevin Mazur/WireImage Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Jackman’s Love Story: How They Met and Always Made Time for Each Other

Hugh and Deborra-lee shared the news that they were separating after 27 years of marriage in an exclusive statement to PEOPLE on Friday.

“We have been blessed to share nearly 3 decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage,” they said. “Our journey is now changing and we have decided to separate to continue our personal growth.”

Cindy Ord/MG23/Getty

The statement continued: “Our family has been and always will be our highest priority. We embrace this next chapter with gratitude, love and kindness. We greatly appreciate your understanding in respecting our privacy as our family goes through this transition in all of our lives.”

Hugh was spotted out and about in New York the day after they announced their split. The Deadpool 3 the actor was not seen wearing a wedding ring.

The cutest photos of Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Jackman through the years

After meeting on the set of an Australian TV series Correlli In 1995, they got married less than a year later, on April 11, 1996.

Sparks flew early between the rivals, and as Hugh told PEOPLE in his 2008 Sexiest Man Alive cover story, “It was undeniable. I started planning to propose after about three months.”

On their 27th wedding anniversary last April, The greatest showman star expressed her love for Deborra-lee and their relationship on Instagram, sharing in part, “I love you so much. We’ve created a beautiful family together. And a life.”

“Your laughter, your spirit, generosity, humor, sass, courage and loyalty are an incredible gift to me,” he added in the description. “I love you with all my heart.”

The couple’s last red carpet appearance was at the Met Gala on May 1, while they attended the Wimbledon men’s final in July.

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Source: HIS Education