The most joyful night of actress Nicole Kidman’s life became a time of terrible personal sorrow. Having learned of the actress’s amazing performance in the film “Babygirl”, viewers were unaware that she had to face a “harrowing” and lonely struggle just before the celebration of success at the 2024 Venice Film Festival.
The disparity between the festive atmosphere of the ceremony and the harsh reality made that evening an essential episode in Nicole’s life, during which she got a new experience. Commenting on the unfortunate coincidence, the actress told Vanity Fair what she felt when her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, suddenly died during the award ceremony.
“I Was Completely Devastated.”
As it later became known, Kidman received information about such a terrible loss literally at the last minute, which broke the festive mood of the event for her. Such an incredible blow left her in deep sorrow, which made it impossible for her to continue participating in the awards ceremony.
“I was about to go out on stage, and I found out that my mother had passed away. So, I went right back to my room in Venice, was getting into bed, and I was completely devastated,” Nicole said.
Instead of celebrating alongside fellow actors and filmmakers, Kidman spent the night alone in her room, processing the shock. She ultimately missed the festival’s closing gala as she tried to cope with the loss.
“Harrowing” Walk Through the Canals of Venice
Having lost her beloved mother, the actress rushed to leave the city at night to get home as soon as possible and take care of the funeral ceremonies. However, Nicole herself did not have enough strength to overcome such a shock and had to stop.
“I remember getting into a boat in the canal, literally at night, trying to find my way to the airport, and then turning around going, ‘I can’t even do this,’” she said. “Then I went back to bed. And I was alone. My husband wasn’t there, my children weren’t there. I was there to win an award, which should’ve been a beautiful thing. That there is the contrast of life.”
Kidman later described the experience as one that reinforced her resilience. She said it strengthened her belief that she could endure even the most difficult moments, a mindset shaped by her mother.
“She told me: don’t ever let anyone break your spirit,” Kidman said.
Kidman’s mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, was a nursing instructor and an active member of the Women’s Electoral Lobby. She played a pivotal role in her daughter’s career, urging her to remain in Hollywood even when roles became scarce in her 40s.
Today, Kidman continues to thrive, with upcoming projects including Practical Magic 2, as well as new series such as Margo’s Got Money Problems on Apple TV+ and Scarpetta on Prime Video.