A Bittersweet Win
Tragedy Strikes as Kidman Receives Top Honor
Nicole Kidman received the Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival for her role in Babygirl. This is a huge accomplishment, but sadly, Kidman wasn’t there to celebrate. She had to leave the festival early due to her mother’s sudden passing.
Kidman’s mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, died on September 7, 2024, at the age of 84. She had been experiencing health issues since at least 2022. Kidman had just arrived in Venice for the festival on the same day as her mother’s passing. She quickly returned to Australia to be with her family.
Honoring Her Mother
In Kidman’s absence, her director, Halina Reijn, accepted the award on her behalf. Reijn read a statement from Kidman, where she dedicated the award to her mother. Kidman’s words expressed deep gratitude for her mother and the profound impact she had on her life.
The news of Janelle Ann Kidman’s passing and Nicole’s departure was met with a collective gasp from the festival audience. It was a stark reminder of the fragility of life, even amidst moments of celebration. Filmmaker Brady Corbet, who won the Silver Lion award for his film The Brutalist, took a moment during the ceremony to offer his condolences to Kidman and her family.
The Venice Film Festival, where Kidman received her award, is one of the most prestigious film events in the world. This year, other notable films and actors were also recognized. Pedro Almodóvar’s The Room Next Door took home the coveted Golden Lion award.
This bittersweet event highlights the intersection of Nicole Kidman’s personal and professional life. It underscores the emotional challenges she faced as she navigated this significant moment in her career while grieving a profound personal loss.
