Nicole Kidman
On Thursday, September 12, 2024, acclaimed actress Nicole Kidman and her sister Antonia shared a heartfelt message of thanks to their supporters after their mother Janelle’s passing. The sisters took to Instagram to express their appreciation for the outpouring of love and kindness they’ve received during this difficult time.
The post, which featured nostalgic family photographs, conveyed the sisters’ deep gratitude: “Every message from those who cherished and admired our Mother has touched us more than words can express. We’re thankful to everyone for respecting our family’s privacy as we support one another through this period.”
Nicole Kidman, 57, had abruptly left the Venice International Film Festival on Saturday, September 7, to return to her native Australia upon learning of her mother’s death at the age of 84. The news was shared during a festival panel where Nicole was awarded Best Actor for her role in “Babygirl.”
In a statement read by the film’s director, Halina Reijn, Nicole Kidman said, “I’ve just learned of my beautiful, courageous mother Janelle Ann Kidman’s passing. I’m in a state of shock and must be with my family. This award is for her—she molded, guided, and made me who I am.”
The Oscar-winning actress’s spokesperson confirmed that the family was heartbroken and requested privacy during this time.
Janelle’s passing comes a decade after Nicole Kidman and Antonia lost their father, Antony, who died in 2014 at 75.
Throughout her career, Nicole Kidman has often spoken about her mother’s profound influence on her life and work. In a 2020 interview with the Sydney Morning Herald, she credited Janelle with inspiring her career pursuit: “She instilled in me the fire to follow my career path because I’ve always wanted to make her proud. But she also forged her way and wanted her daughters to have the same opportunity to carve out their paths.”
Nicole Kidman, who is married to country music star Keith Urban and has four children, has consistently emphasized the importance of family in her life. In a 2021 conversation with The Guardian, she described herself as “deeply embedded in a family, in an intense marriage,” highlighting her roles as a wife, mother, and daughter as her primary identities.
As the Kidman family navigates this difficult time, the outpouring of support from fans and fellow celebrities alike demonstrates the far-reaching impact Janelle had, not only on her daughters but on all those who knew her. Her legacy as a strong, supportive mother who encouraged her children to pursue their dreams will undoubtedly live on through Nicole Kidman and Antonia’s continued success and dedication to their own families. US Magazine
