In a headline so bold that it features all capital letters, a question mark and an exclamation point, the National Enquirer “reported” last Friday that there’s a hot new rumor buzzing about Fox’s X-Men franchise and arguably the most important piece – Hugh Jackman as Wolverine. According to sources and insiders, Hugh Jackman is supposedly mulling over an incredible $100 million offer from Fox that would keep the Australian actor rocking the claws and mutton chops for at least four more films, and that doesn’t seem odd, because these films are cash cows.
What does seem odd, though, is the Enquirer’s report that Jackman is leaning toward declining the offer, if he hasn’t already, because he’s concerned about a long-term commitment to the role of the man they call Logan.
The 44-year-old Aussie hunk is said to be wary about inking a long-term deal – even though this one would double his net worth.
“Hugh has a big decision to make,” a close pal told The ENQUIRER. “It’s not every day an actor gets offered this kind of paycheck, but Hugh vowed never to lock himself into any multipicture deals after ‘X-Men.’ He hasn’t given any kind of answer yet, so at least he’s considering it.”
The “close pal” also “told” the “Enquirer” that Jackman’s decision-making is controlled by his wife, Deborra-Lee, who apparently didn’t want him to even play Wolverine in the first place, because she wants him to be Mr. Serious all the time. In fact, if I close my eyes, I can almost hear one of the conversations that they’ve had…
Hugh Jackman: “Hey honey, Fox just offered me $15 million to play Wolverine again in X2.”
Deborra-Lee: “No. I want you to focus on more serious roles now that you’ve had your silly action fun.”
Hugh Jackman: “Okay, then I’ll go ahead and sign on for that Swordfish movie that you mentioned.”
ONE YEAR LATER
Deborra-Lee: “I said I’m sorry, okay? I had no idea that John Travolta expected daily massages from you.”