A moment of glory marred by terrible news. Nicole Kidman, cinema icon, received the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the 81st Venice Film Festival for her role in Babygirl, a film directed by Halina Reijn. However, Kidman could not take the stage to accept her award. Shortly after her arrival in Venice, she learned of the death of her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, at the age of 84.
The film’s director spoke on behalf of the actress, reading an emotional message. Nicole Kidman confided that she was in shock and dedicated her award to her mother. "She shaped me, guided me, and made me," she wrote. She also thanked Halina Reijn for giving her the opportunity to mention her mother’s name during this ceremony, adding that "the collision between life and art is heartbreaking." The shock was so severe that the 57-year-old actress had to leave the festival to join her family.
Nicole Kidman had a very close relationship with her mother. In 2020, she expressed her joy at being able to see her mother again after months of separation due to the coronavirus. Kidman had missed Janelle’s 80th birthday, but the latter had always shown unwavering support. Nicole Kidman often highlighted her mother’s influence on her career. She encouraged her to follow her dreams while forging her own path.
This loss comes as Kidman was presenting Babygirl in Venice, a thriller in which she stars alongside Antonio Banderas and Jean Reno. The film received an enthusiastic reception, and Kidman’s performance was hailed as one of the boldest of her career. Isabelle Huppert, president of the jury, expressed her support for the grieving actress. She said: "Nicole, we miss you and we love you."
Kidman has always spoken emotionally about her mother’s influence, a woman she described as determined and brilliant. In 2022, she made a rare statement about her mother’s health. She indicated that she had taken time to care for her in Australia. Janelle Ann Kidman’s health had not been publicly mentioned since, but her daughter always described with admiration her lucidity and sharp mind, even at an advanced age.
This tragedy abruptly ends a moment that should have been one of the brightest in Kidman’s recent career. The film Babygirl, for which she won the Volpi Cup, explores themes of passion, power, and fragility, traits that the actress has always embodied with great sensitivity. The loss of her mother adds an even more poignant personal dimension to her performance.
Nicole Kidman continues to lead a prolific international career. This news represents a turning point for her, both intimate and public. At 57, she is an indispensable figure in world cinema. She is recognized for her talent, but also for her ability to navigate the complexities of life.
Leaving Venice to join her loved ones, Kidman leaves behind a festival marked by her absence. Yet, her imprint remains. The Volpi Cup won for Babygirl remains a tribute to her esteemed mother who inspired her throughout her journey.