Jackman’s secret isolation project
EXCLUSIVE: Bad Education star Hugh Jackman has used his secret life in lockdown to campaign for greater mental health support during the global COVID-19 crisis.
The Aussie superstar warned a loneliness epidemic “has just gone to another level” as the world self-isolates during the coronavirus scare, urging Australians to do all they can to support those around them.
The mental health ambassador and his best friend Gus Worland have been quietly hosting corporate web seminars to promote messages of connection and conversation through their Gotcha4Life charity.
“I’ve learned so much from being on the board and we are planning on more of those talks. Gus has been incredible … it’s something we really need to pay attention to in the world and Australia, a lot. Now, it’s just gone to another level. Our need to look after each other, not just financially and physically, but mentally is a priority. There’s a lot of loneliness out there and this only adds to that,” he told News Corp Australia.
Speaking from his Manhattan apartment, Jackman confessed his quarantine time had been mostly spent bingewatching TV – making him the perfect fit for new streaming service, Binge.
On his own binge list, Jackman said he’s used the guise of doing the ironing to sneak off to watch Mrs America (on Binge) and The Last Dance (on Foxtel’s ESPN).
Meanwhile, Jackman has been regaled by critics for his latest ‘career best’ performance in new HBO biopic, Bad Education.
Jackman takes the lead in the true story of Frank Tassone, a high school superintendent who went to prison after he and a number of cohorts embezzled more than $12 million.
After his arrest, those working closest to him discovered his double life as a gay man, including a longterm partner and a secret boyfriend.
“It’s a part of human nature that we can convince ourselves that things are okay if they benefit us,” Jackman said. “We justify our actions and I think in that way, while it’s entertaining, in the end it leaves you with mini reminder to check under your own cupboard.”