After winning the International Star Award, Nicole Kidman delivered a heartfelt tribute to her late parents. Visibly emotional, the Australian actress was overcome with tears as she spoke about her parents following her mother’s death. Kidman’s tribute occurred at the 36th annual Palm Springs International Film Awards while giving her acceptance speech.
Nicole Kidman’s Heartfelt Tribute
Shortly after receiving the award from presenter, Jamie Lee Curtis, Kidman gave her emotional speech. Given her recent loss, the actress’ emotional state was understandable as her mother, Janelle, passed away in September. To make matters worse, Kidman received the devastating news of her mother’s passing moments before being honored for her role in Babygirl at the Venice Film Festival. Preceding her mother’s death, Kidman’s father, Anthony, passed away in 2014.
According to the Daily Mail, Nicole Kidman shared her tribute with the Palm Springs audience. Returning home for Christmas, the actress had to confront living in a world without her parents. Due to losing both her mother and father, she acknowledged that she was beginning a new chapter of her life. In her tribute, Kidman spoke on the enduring impact of her parents’ influence, crediting them with teaching her resilience, love, and strength, which she uses to propel forward.
Tragic News
Furthermore, Nicole Kidman spoke more in-depth about when she got the news of her mother’s passing as she arrived in Venice. Although she was overcome with emotion, the actress recalled asking the director of Babygirl, Halina Reijn, to take her place on stage. Standing on stage at the Palm Springs International Film Awards, however, she’d dedicate her award to her late mother.
With her voice cracked with emotion, she spoke on her desire to make her parents proud being the driving force of her career. Struggling to hold back tears, the actress stated she could feel her mother’s presence. Notably, losing both parents hadn’t slowed Kidman’s determination but strengthened it, allowing her to continue working and giving back to the world.
Kidman’s Loving Parents
Although Nicole Kidman’s birthplace is Honolulu, Hawaii, she was raised in Sydney, Australia where her parents deeply influenced her. While her father, a psychologist, left a lasting impact on the actress’ life, her mother played a profound role in shaping Kidman’s career and personal life. Even before her mother’s passing, the actress spoke about her immense support and guidance over the years.
Kidman’s incredibly close bond with her mother was evident in the numerous times the actress expressed appreciation towards her. In fact, the actress thanked her mother for building her self-confidence to pursue her dreams. Once she received the news of her mother’s passing, Kidman was forced to leave the Venice Film Festival abruptly. Ultimately, she’d return to her native home of Sydney to be with her family during the difficult time.
Babygirl’s Outstanding Accomplishments
On August 30, 2024, Babygirl made its highly-anticipated debut at the 81st annual Venice International Film Festival. While there, Nicole Kidman delivered a remarkable performance, which earned her the prestigious Volvi Cup for Best Actress. Following its debut, the film premiered on September 10 at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival.
Courtesy of A24, Babygirl received a wide theatrical release after its successful festival run on December 25, 2024. As the film’s critical acclaim grew, the National Board of Review named Babygirl one of 2024’s top ten films. Additionally, Kidman solidified her position as one of Hollywood’s leading ladies with her outstanding performance in the film being recognized with the Best Actress prize.
Kidman Stays Strong
Despite her losses, Nicole Kidman has garnered significant buzz for her captivating performance in the erotic thriller, Babygirl, this Awards Season. Mainly, the actress portrays a high-powered corporate executive with an all-consuming obsession with a younger male colleague. In addition to her already impressive reputation, her nuanced portrayal of Romy is generating widespread critical acclaim. Before joining the thriller film, Kidman had taken home an Academy Award for her performance in The Hours back in 2003.
