Man of the Hour
Montblanc global ambassador Hugh Jackman talks about his partnership with the brand
In this Philippine Tatler exclusive, Hugh Jackman touches on his longstanding partnership with Montblanc and shares some career advice He was announced as Montblanc’s brand ambassador in 2014 for all its international campaigns outside North America. But just a couple of years later, Hugh Jackman agreed to represent the continent, making him a truly global spokesman for the luxury brand. As endorsements outside of charity work is a rarity for the actor, it came to the surprise of many that he had acquiesced to take on an even bigger role for Montblanc. Jackman praised the brand for its dedication to craftsmanship, stating, “It is fascinating to see these products being designed with such inspiration, then created with precision by real craftsmen. I would not put my name on anything I do not believe in.” What does it take to be a successful actor? It’s whatever works for you as an individual. I was in my late twenties and married when I got my first feature film role. Since I was older, it made me extremely aware of how lucky I am and allowed me to handle the highs and lows of fame better. How do you manage your hectic schedule? It’s a challenge keeping up with all the time zones I travel in. I try to stay fit, eat well, and get as much rest as possible. One of the best things about being Montblanc’s global brand ambassador is getting to wear
“It is fascinating to see these products being designed with such inspiration... I would not put my name on anything I do not believe in”
its chronographs. I know how sought-after they are, and I have a feeling they will keep me on time and on track wherever I am in the world.
What do you always have in your suitcase? My passport and my laptop.
What is your favourite place to explore?
I’m a water baby. If I don’t go into the ocean for a few weeks, I start dreaming about it.
The first thing I do when I get into a hotel room is: Open the window and take a deep breath.
The place everyone must visit before they die is: New York City. All the time I lived there, I never knew what was coming around the corner.
On my walls there are:
My wife Deb’s photographs—places we have been to, images of family and friends. There are probably some “artworks” by the kids that I am yet to find!
The central feature in my home is:
The kitchen table. Ours has benches on both sides, so we fit a lot of people.
A home should always feel like:
A sanctuary. It’s where we close out all the noise of the day and just be together.
How did Laughing Man Coffee come to be?
It started when Deb and I took a trip to Ethiopia. We met a man named Dukale, and I worked with him on his farm for a few days. He is one of the most amazing men I have ever met. He had, at the time, five kids and another on the way. His spirit is electric. We connected on a deeper level. He taught me a lot about coffee and growing the trees. Meeting him was one of the great honours of my life. He is my friend to this day. 100per cent of my Laughing Man profits are donated to charity.
As Montblanc’s global brand ambassador, what else are you looking forward to?
Discovering its ateliers in Hamburg, its two watch manufactures in the Swiss Jura, and the Pelleteria manufacture in Florence. I am also looking forward to supporting Montblanc’s outstanding work in the field of arts and culture.