Nicole Kidman Unable to Attend Venice Film Festival to Accept Acting Award Due to Mother’s Passing: “My Heart Is Broken”
Nicole Kidman won the Best Actress prize at the Venice Film Festival on Saturday for her role in Babygirl. Unfortunately, she was unable to accept the prize in person due to the devastating news of her mother’s death.
When Kidman’s name was announced, Babygirl director Halina Reijn took the stage to deliver a statement on Kidman’s behalf. Kidman had arrived in Venice to attend the event, but had to leave upon learning of her mother, Janelle Anne Kidman’s death.
“When I arrived in Venice today, I discovered that my brave and beautiful mother had died,” Kidman said in a statement. “I’m in shock and need to be with my family, but I want to dedicate this award to her.”
Kidman’s tribute continued, “She shaped, guided, and made me who I am. I am deeply grateful to say her name to you all through Halina. The intersection of life and art is overwhelming right now. My heart is broken.”
Janelle Anne Kidman was a nursing lecturer and a member of the Women’s Electoral Lobby, an Australian feminist group.
Kidman was among several honored at the Venice Film Festival that evening. Vincent Lindon won Best Actor for The Quiet Son, while Paul Kircher earned the Best Young Actor award for his role in And Their Children After Them.
Pedro Almodóvar received the festival’s highest accolade, the Golden Lion for Best Film, for The Room Next Door, which starred Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton. Brady Corbet got a Silver Lion for Best Director for The Brutalist.