Nicole Kidman’s mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, has passed away.
In a statement read by Babygirl director Halina Reijn at the Venice Film Festival on Saturday, September 7, Kidman shared that she had left the event early due to her mother’s death. At 57, Kidman made the announcement during what would have been her acceptance speech for Best Actress for her role in Babygirl.
Reijn, 48, read aloud Kidman’s words, where she revealed, “shortly after arriving in Venice, I learned that my beautiful, brave mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, has passed away.”
Despite being in shock and needing to be with her family, Kidman dedicated the honor to her mother, saying, “It was she who molded, directed, and created me.” Reijn concluded the message by reading, “I am beyond grateful that I get to say her name to all of you through Halina. The collision of life and art is heartbreaking, and my heart is broken.”
Reijn followed with a heartfelt remark to the audience, stating, “We love you all, Nicole.”
Kidman’s representative confirmed the sad news to People, stating, “The family is heartbroken and requests privacy at this time.”
In a November 2023 interview with PEOPLE, Kidman reflected on how her mother influenced both her career and style, mentioning how Janelle was “so involved” in what she wore. In a previous interview with the Sydney Morning Herald, Kidman shared how supportive her mother had been in helping her achieve her goals.
In 2020, Kidman told the Hollywood Reporter, “She’s given me the fire to pursue the career I have because I’ve always wanted to please her.” She further explained that although her mother didn’t achieve the career she had hoped for, she was determined that her daughters would have equal opportunities. Kidman concluded, “Because of that, I found my life, and it was her and my father who gave me my life.
