Nicole Kidman had to leave the 81st Venice International Film Festival unexpectedly because her mother sadly passed away.
Reports say that the famous actress received the important Volpi Cup for best actress at the awards for her latest film, Babygirl. But instead of Kidman being there to accept it, the movie’s director, Halina Reijn, took the award for her. She then shared that Kidman had gone home after finding out about her mother’s passing.
In a message shared by Reijn, Kidman mentioned that she found out about her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman’s, death right after she got to Venice that day.
“I’m in shock and I have to go to my family,” the statement said. “But this award is for her. She shaped me, she guided me and she made me.”
The Australia star added, “My heart is broken”, while there were audible gasps from audience members as the statement was read out by Reijn.
USA Today reported that in 2022, Kidman talked about her mom having health problems. She mentioned that she was in Australia to help take care of her during that time.
Kidman said that since they are so close, her mom was letting her see the world from the perspective of an 81-year-old woman.
The 57-year-old continued, “This is really helpful at the moment since she’s very aware of everything. Her mind is fully sharp, and she hasn’t forgotten anything at all, which is amazing. She’s super smart, and she speaks her mind clearly and truthfully.”
Kidman’s parents were both Australian. Her father, a psychologist, died in 2014.
‘Babygirl’ director Halina Reijn accepts the #Venezia81 Best Actress award on behalf of Nicole Kidman, whose mother passed away upon her arrival to Venice pic.twitter.com/ig0Z6VpYC7
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) September 7, 2024
The actress’s mom was 83 years old when she passed away, and she had walked the red carpets with her daughter many times throughout the years.
In her newest movie, Babygirl, Kidman portrays a CEO who is involved in a relationship with a young intern. The film got a great response at the Venice Film Festival when it premiered, earning a seven-minute standing ovation from the crowd.
Kidman was reportedly visibly moved by the positive reaction, while she embraced Reijn after the screening.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Nicole Kidman during these most terrible of times. Rest in peace, Janelle Ann Kidman.