Kidman Skips Venice Event Following Mother’s Passing
Nicole Kidman had to leave the Venice Film Festival on September 7, 2024, after receiving the devastating news of her mother’s death. Janelle Ann Kidman, aged 84, passed away while Kidman was in Venice to attend the premiere of her latest film, Babygirl. Kidman, who was supposed to receive the Volpi Cup for Best Actress, left the festival early to be with her family. A statement read on her behalf by the film’s director, Halina Reijn, expressed Kidman’s bottomless grief and shock at the sudden loss.
Kidman wrote, “My heart is broken,” and shared how her mother had always been her guide and inspiration. “This award is for her,” she said, dedicating her win to Janelle. The audience in Venice, including jury president Isabelle Huppert, offered their condolences, with Huppert mentioning how much Kidman would be missed at the festival.
Janelle Ann Kidman was a key figure in Nicole’s life, shaping her personal and professional journey. Kidman often spoke about her mother’s influence on her career, her feminist values, and her fashion sense. In a 2023 interview, Kidman highlighted how close she was to her mother, noting that Janelle’s strength and intelligence had been a major source of inspiration throughout her life.
Kidman had previously opened up about her mother’s declining health, and in 2022, she spent a significant amount of time in Australia caring for her. Despite her mother’s struggles, Kidman noted that Janelle remained sharp and aware, something she admired deeply. Janelle was also a nurse educator and a strong advocate for women’s rights, topics she frequently discussed with her daughter.
Although her absence was deeply felt at the Venice Film Festival, Kidman’s fans and colleagues have shown their support during this difficult time. Reijn, who read Kidman’s heartfelt message, ended by simply saying, “We love you all, Nicole,” a sentiment echoed by the audience. The actress’s loss came during a great professional achievement, making the moment bittersweet. Kidman later thanked everyone for their condolences, asking for privacy as she and her family grieve.
Kidman’s deep bond with her mother has been widely known, and her absence from Venice left a significant mark on an otherwise celebratory occasion,
(People mag) (AOL.com)
