Aussie actor Hugh Jackman opens up about relationship with Deadpool star Ryan Reynolds

Aussie actor Hugh Jackman has opened up about his close friendship with Ryan Reynolds, saying he feels safe enough to tell the Hollywood star things he’s “ashamed and embarrassed” about.

Months after splitting from his wife Deborra-Lee Furness, the 55-year-old revealed in an interview with People Magazine that Reynolds, 47, has become someone he can count on.

“There’s probably fewer friends in our life that you can say anything to, the stuff you’re ashamed, embarrassed, anything,” Jackman said.

“And ever since I’ve known you, and I would say in particular in like the last five, 10 years, we’ve had more time where we go for our walks because you’re an unbelievable listener.

“So you can tell me anything and I can tell you anything, and I don’t feel like you’re going to be judging or necessarily giving me the answer: ‘Do this.’ And I think that has been the key.”

Reynolds — who is starring alongside Jackman in the new Deadpool movie — said he is “genuinely rooting for Jackman all the time”.

Jackman also recently revealed he has been leaning on his children to get him through the tough times.

He admitted he has found it helpful to speak to Oscar, 24, and Ava, 19 — who he shares with his estranged wife — when he’s experiencing moments of anxiety.

He said: “I used to be a little bit old-school. I thought, ‘Don’t burden them if you are anxious.’

“Say you’ve got an opening night, or you’re hosting the Oscars — for three weeks before, I go a little distant. And then someone said to me, ‘But your kids don’t know that you’ve got the Oscars. Maybe they’re thinking you’re mad with them (or) they’ve done something.’

“I had to make an uncomfortable phone call yesterday, and I actually just said to my son, ‘I’ve got to make this uncomfortable phone call. I’m a bit nervous about it. If I seem a bit off, that’s why.’ And he goes, ‘Oh.’ And then he said, ‘How did the call go, Dad?’ I said, ‘I feel so much better.’”

In September, Furness and Jackman made headlines around the world after announcing they were going their separate ways after 27 years of marriage.

The high-profile Australian couple shared a joint statement to People announcing their mutual divorce.

“We have been blessed to share almost three decades together as husband and wife in a wonderful, loving marriage,” it read.

“Our journey now is shifting, and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth.