Nicole Kidman Opens Up About Her Mother's Passing at Venice Film Festival

In a poignant moment, Nicole Kidman disclosed the tragic news of her mother's death just before she was to accept an award at the Venice Film Festival. Reflecting on her emotional turmoil, Kidman shared her struggles with the loss and her desire to become a death doula to provide comfort to others in similar situations. This heartfelt revelation highlights the contrast between personal grief and public success, inviting readers to explore her journey further.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 19, 2026, 08:44 IST

Nicole Kidman's Heartfelt Revelation

Hollywood actress Nicole Kidman shared the heartbreaking news of her mother's death, which she learned just moments before she was to accept the Best Actress award at the 2024 Venice Film Festival for her role in Babygirl. Her mother, Janelle Anne Kidman, who was a nursing educator and an active member of the Women’s Electoral Lobby, passed away in September 2024 at the age of 84, leaving Kidman in deep sorrow. She recounted a 'harrowing' experience trying to leave Venice at night to be with her family, navigating the dark canals before ultimately deciding to return.

Nicole Kidman Reflects on Her Mother's Death

During a discussion with Hoda Kotb at a History Talks event in Philadelphia, Kidman revealed, "I was about to go on stage when I found out my mother had passed away." She described returning to her hotel room in Venice, feeling utterly devastated. Kidman expressed her struggle to comprehend the loss, stating, "I’m not sure how I’m going to move forward or function now. She was such a significant part of my life."

She further recounted her attempt to take a boat through the canals at night, trying to reach the airport, only to turn back. "Then I went back to bed. I was alone. My husband and children were not there. I was there to receive an award, which should have been a joyous occasion. That’s the contrast of life," she reflected.

Nicole Kidman's Aspirations as a Death Doula

In a previous talk at the University of San Francisco's War Memorial Gym, Kidman expressed her desire to become a death doula. She shared, "As my mother was passing, she felt lonely, and there was only so much we could do as a family. With my sister and I managing our careers and children, I wished for someone who could provide impartial support and comfort during such times. This is part of my journey and something I plan to learn more about." Notably, Kidman is not alone in this aspiration; actress Riley Keough has also trained as a death doula, finding it beneficial in coping with her own grief after her brother's tragic passing in July 2020.