Hugh Jackman Faces Backlash Over MAGA-Linked Birthday Performance

Resurfaced ties to Trump allies reignite controversy around the actor's political leanings.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 3:21pm

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Hugh Jackman's recent private performance at billionaire Rupert Murdoch's 95th birthday party has sparked renewed scrutiny of the actor's perceived ties to MAGA-aligned figures. Jackman sang songs from his 2017 film "The Greatest Showman" at the event, which was attended by Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner. This has led some fans to express discomfort over Jackman's proximity to Trump-affiliated individuals, reigniting longstanding questions about the actor's political leanings.

Why it matters

Jackman's association with Trump-aligned figures like the Kushners has been a source of controversy for years, as the actor has sought to maintain a politically neutral public persona. This latest incident has the potential to further damage Jackman's reputation, especially among fans who are critical of the former president and his allies.

The details

According to reports, Jackman sang several numbers from his 2017 film "The Greatest Showman" at a black-tie birthday celebration for Rupert Murdoch, the founder of News Corp. and Fox Corporation. Joining Jackman at the event were Ivanka Trump and her husband, Jared Kushner, as well as other high-profile figures like composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair. Jackman has acknowledged his friendship with the Trumps and Kushners in the past, saying they don't discuss politics at social gatherings.

  • On Saturday, March 12, 2026, Jackman performed at Rupert Murdoch's 95th birthday party.

The players

Hugh Jackman

An Australian actor known for his roles in films like "The Greatest Showman" and the "X-Men" franchise.

Rupert Murdoch

The founder of News Corp. and Fox Corporation, who celebrated his 95th birthday with a private party.

Ivanka Trump

The eldest daughter of former President Donald Trump, who served as an adviser in his administration and has since rebranded as a food waste entrepreneur.

Jared Kushner

Ivanka Trump's husband, who also served as an aide in the Trump administration and is a business owner and investor.

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What they’re saying

“I just unfollowed @thehughjackman. That'll show him and his 6.9M followers!!!”

— Kristy, Anti-MAGA mom (Threads)

What’s next

The renewed attention on Jackman's political ties could lead to further scrutiny of his relationship with the Trumps and Kushners, as well as the potential impact on his personal life and career.

The takeaway

Jackman's association with Trump-aligned figures has long been a source of controversy, and this latest incident has the potential to further damage his reputation among fans who are critical of the former president and his allies. The actor's efforts to maintain a politically neutral public persona may be increasingly challenged as his ties to MAGA-linked individuals continue to resurface.