Nicole Kidman’s Heartbreak: Announces Mother’s Death Amid Venice Film Festival Win
Oscar-winning actress Nicole Kidman has shared the devastating news of her mother, Janelle Kidman’s passing, just as she was honored with the Best Actress award at the 2024 Venice Film Festival. Kidman, known for her remarkable performances, was not present to accept the award for her latest film, Babygirl, having recently arrived in Venice when she received word of her mother’s death.
An Emotional Tribute to Her Mother
In a heartfelt statement read by Babygirl director Halina Reijn, Kidman expressed her deep sorrow: “I’m in shock, and I have to go to my family. But this award is for her. She shaped me, she guided me, and she made me.” She added that the loss of her mother during this monumental moment in her career felt like “the collision of life and art.”
Janelle Kidman, aged 83, had long been a guiding influence in Nicole’s life and career. Nicole’s father, Antony Kidman, passed away in 2014, leaving Nicole and her younger sister, Antonia, with the profound legacy of their parents’ unwavering support.
Kidman’s Deep Bond with Her Mother
In a 2020 interview with the Sydney Morning Herald, Kidman spoke of her mother as her mentor, guide, and nurturer, acknowledging that her mother’s encouragement ignited the fire that led her to pursue a career in acting. “She’s given me the fire to pursue the career I have because I’ve always wanted to please her,” Kidman said. Janelle, who hadn’t achieved the career she desired, was determined to ensure her daughters had every opportunity to carve their own paths, a sentiment Kidman has often reflected on.
Nicole’s relationship with her mother went beyond career support, extending into personal aspects of her life. In a recent interview, Nicole shared that she would still seek advice from Janelle, even for her fashion choices. “My mother is still — she’s so involved in what I wear,” Kidman revealed, a testament to their close bond.
A Career of Triumphs Amid Personal Loss
Babygirl, an erotic thriller in which Kidman portrays Romy, a high-powered New York CEO who embarks on a torrid affair with a company intern, premiered to much acclaim at the Venice Film Festival. While Kidman was absent from the festival to grieve with her family, director Halina Reijn accepted the Best Actress award on her behalf.
Kidman’s career, marked by groundbreaking performances in films like Moulin Rouge and Big Little Lies, has been deeply intertwined with the love and support of her parents. Raised in Sydney after spending time in the United States, Nicole credits her parents, particularly her mother, for shaping her ambitions and success.
A Lasting Legacy
Nicole Kidman’s poignant tribute to her mother underscores Janelle’s profound influence on her life. “She shaped me, she guided me, and she made me,” Kidman expressed. The loss of her mother, paired with her recent professional accolade, is a bittersweet moment in the actress’s life as she navigates personal tragedy and career triumph.
As she mourns Janelle’s passing, Nicole Kidman’s enduring success and the bond she shared with her mother will remain a lasting testament to Janelle Kidman’s legacy.