Heartbreak doesn't always have to end in bitterness! While divorce is undoubtedly tough, especially under the glaring lights of fame, some celebrity couples prove that it's possible to navigate separation with grace and maintain genuine friendships afterward. Some relationships end acrimoniously, filled with conflict. But others simply evolve, and the people involved find ways to stay connected. From "conscious uncoupling" to blended families, let's take a look at some famous faces who've managed to stay friends even after saying "I don't."
Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness: A Quiet Separation
After nearly three decades together, Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness announced their separation in September 2023. It wasn't until April 2025 that Deborra-Lee officially filed for legal separation. Reports suggest she quietly initiated the legal proceedings in New York, indicating a two-year period between the initial separation and the formal legal steps.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some speculated that the couple were trying to mend their relationship behind the scenes, which wouldn't be shocking considering their initial statements emphasizing the amicable nature of the split. It raises the question: Can time and space sometimes rekindle a flame, or was this simply a matter of transitioning into a new chapter of their lives separately?
Bruce Willis and Demi Moore: A Modern Family
Divorced for over two decades, Bruce Willis and Demi Moore exemplify a strong, enduring bond. Their connection extends beyond co-parenting their three daughters – Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah – and being grandparents to Rumer's child, Lou. They genuinely appreciate each other's presence in their lives. The family even quarantined together in Idaho during the early days of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020!
Even with Bruce's remarriage to Emma Heming Willis, their connection remains strong, particularly in light of his dementia diagnosis. Demi's unwavering support is a testament to their deep bond. "We will always be a family, just in a different form," Demi shared with Variety in February 2025. "For me, there was never a question. I show up because that's what you do for the people you love." She visits him weekly to support Emma and their children during this challenging time.
Justin Trudeau and Sophie Grégoire Trudeau: Thanksgiving Together
Justin Trudeau's recent link to pop star Katy Perry has definitely turned heads. And this is the part most people miss... Despite the new romance, he and his ex-wife, Sophie Grégoire, seem to be on excellent terms. Sophie even included Justin in her Instagram story celebrating Canadian Thanksgiving with their children.
The couple announced their separation in 2023 after 18 years of marriage and share three children: Xavier, Ella-Grace, and Hadrien. It seems they've successfully navigated the complexities of divorce while prioritizing their family. It begs the question: Is it easier to remain friends when both parties move on and find happiness with others?
Orlando Bloom and Miranda Kerr: Co-Parenting Champions
Speaking of Katy Perry, her ex-husband, Orlando Bloom, also maintains a positive relationship with his first wife, Miranda Kerr. They divorced in 2013, and Orlando began dating Katy in 2015. Miranda later married Snapchat founder Evan Spiegel.
Throughout Orlando and Katy's relationship, they remained close with Miranda, focusing on co-parenting their son, Flynn. They were even seen together at Vanity Fair's annual Oscars after-party, posing for pictures as a united front.
In an interview with Vogue Australia, Miranda stated, "Co-parenting with Orlando and Katy is something that I feel really happy about. From day one, when Orlando and I decided to separate, I said, 'Listen, whatever we do, we have to put Flynn's needs first, not our own.'" She emphasizes that their decisions are always centered around family, which remains her top priority.
Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin: Pioneers of "Conscious Uncoupling"
Gwyneth Paltrow and Coldplay's Chris Martin famously announced their divorce in 2014 after a decade of marriage. They popularized the term "conscious uncoupling," which has since become a common phrase in celebrity divorces. Gwyneth is now married to Glee co-creator Brad Falchuk, while Chris was most recently linked to Dakota Johnson until their split in June.
Despite divorcing almost a decade ago, they remain close and frequently appear together with their children, Apple and Moses Martin. Gwyneth acknowledges the significant roles both men play in her life. "I know my ex-husband was meant to be the father of my children, and I know my current husband is meant to be the person I grow very old with," she wrote in an op-ed for Vogue. "Conscious uncoupling lets us recognise that those two different loves can coexist and nourish each other."
Hugh Grant and Elizabeth Hurley: Best Friends Forever?
Elizabeth Hurley and Hugh Grant's romance began in 1987 on the set of the film Remando al Viento. They dated for 13 years before amicably parting ways in 2000.
Despite their split, they've maintained a strong friendship. Hugh is the godfather to Elizabeth's son, Damian, and Elizabeth is the godmother to one of Hugh's children. "He's still my absolute best friend and he's very important to me. I speak to [Hugh] quite a lot... I still go to him for advice on scripts... he's still my go-to person," Elizabeth told PEOPLE in 2020. "We're always very aware that there are other people in our lives... You have to move with the times and be very respectful of the present."
So, what do you think? Is it truly possible to remain good friends with an ex, or is it just a carefully constructed facade for the public eye? And does having children together make it easier, or more complicated? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
