Hugh Jackman says his father died on Australia's Father's Day

Actor Hugh Jackman has revealed that his father, Christopher John Jackman, died on Sunday. (TOBIAS SCHWARZ/AFP/Getty Images/CNN)

"X-Men" actor Hugh Jackman has revealed that his father, Christopher John Jackman, died on Sunday.

He passed away on Australia's Father's Day, Jackman said, telling fans on Instagram: "Whilst there is deep sadness, I am filled with such gratitude and love."

"My Dad was, in a word, extraordinary. He devoted his life to his family, his work and his faith. I pray he is now at peace with God," he added.

Christopher John Jackman was an English-born accountant who emigrated to Australia before Hugh was born.

He raised the future actor and his four siblings alone after splitting from his wife when Hugh was eight years old, Jackman told The Telegraph in 2011.

The star paid tribute to his father throughout his career, describing him as his "rock" in an interview with CBS News' "60 Minutes" show in 2012.

And in an Instagram post last year, he wrote: "My Father taught me to always keep my promises ... Even if it turns out that there's a better option or something that will benefit me more. Be true to your word."