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Hugh Jackman’s Secret Tribute Fails Spectacularly in Andy Lee’s NYC Pub

BBG News

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I must share an unfortunate incident that unfolded at my newly established pub here in New York City. In an attempt to honor the Aussie icon, Hugh Jackman, a tribute evening was planned, but unfortunately, it didn’t go as smoothly as we had hoped.

The comedian, 43, opened his Australian-themed pub, Old Mates, in Manhattan, back in February.

As your trusted lifestyle guide, let me share with you an exciting venture I’m involved in. This project boasts a stellar group of investors, among whom are Hamish Blake, the renowned comedian; Ash Barty, our tennis sensation; Mick Fanning, the surfing legend; Pat Cummins, the Australian cricket captain; and the esteemed Hugh, a household name in Hollywood.

In a conversation with Nine Entertainment, the comedian shared his intention to discreetly incorporate tributes to his supporters on the pub’s walls.

‘I asked them what’s their favourite pub in Australia, their favourite drink?’ Andy said.

There are subtle references to each of them, and a beloved Australian pub, beautifully framed, adorns the wall.

Despite the heartfelt tribute that Hugh had prepared, it didn’t hold up through the entire trading day due to an unfortunate workplace accident.

‘Unfortunately we smashed Jackman’s on day one accidentally,’ Andy admitted.

The item was suspended over the cash register, and as an employee rounded the corner, they accidentally bumped into it, causing it to fall and shatter the glass.

Despite this, the host of The Hundred disclosed that Hugh’s preferred spot for a drink in Australia is none other than the renowned pub, The Oaks Hotel, located in Neutral Bay.

Andy first announced his plans to open a New York pub back in December last year.

On Instagram, he shared multiple photos featuring himself alongside restaurateur Eddy Buckingham, as well as Australian café enthusiasts Nicholas Stone and Andrew Stone.

‘Super EXCITED for this!!’ he wrote.

Following the shutdown of the last Australian bar in Manhattan due to COVID-19, a group of us friends felt it crucial to establish a new gathering spot.

Australians residing in New York City are searching for a venue where they can enjoy an ice-cold Australian brew, catch the AFL and NRL finals, root for the Matildas, and watch The Ashes. In simpler terms, they want a spot to unwind with an authentic Aussie beer while experiencing some classic Aussie sports and cricket action.

‘Old Mates is it. 170 John St, Seaport NYC.’

Humorously, he remarked, “It’s been three long years for me to construct this pub single-handedly, much like Noah from The Notebook.

‘If you don’t believe me, see the last picture where I’m clearly holding a drill.’

At present, the comedian is juggling quite a few tasks, as he’s been actively involved in a massive home renovation project in Melbourne.

At present, Andy and his fiancée, Rebecca Harding, are working on renovating an old, 150-year-old mansion that’s located near the Yarra River in Hawthorn.

Months into this prolonged construction process, I couldn’t help but share my excitement on Instagram, posting a video of me maneuvering a colossal crane like it was second nature.

Up in the air atop the construction crane, workers balanced dangerously within a substantial metal enclosure, their safety entrusted to Andy’s expertise with the large machines below.

Andy himself realized it was amazing, exclaiming, “This is unbelievable!” while chuckling, from within the machine’s cockpit.

Andy exclaimed, “Wow, I’ve got five folks in my care up there. It’s quite an amazing feeling,” as he looked upward.

Thankfully, Andy’s worksite tomfoolery appeared to occur without major incident.

In 2023, the ambitious restoration project of a manor named Ravenswood, styled after Italy, started for Andy and Rebecca, valued at approximately $5 million.

The design for this location features the construction of an additional structure, linked via a tunnel to the existing Victorian-style manor, dating back to approximately 1876.

Among the exciting features of the 1950-square-meter property are a private cinema, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and a spacious master suite.

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2025-05-09 01:48

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