Nicole Kidman Misses Best Actress Win in Venice Due to Her Mother’s Death: ‘Family Is Heartbroken’

Mar. 15, 2025

Nicole Kidman and mom Janelle Ann Kidman (left).Photo:James D. Morgan/Getty

James D. Morgan/Getty

Nicole Kidman’s mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, has died.

Nicole Kidman (left) and her mother Janelle Ann Kidman in 2001.James Morgan/Shutterstock

James Morgan/Shutterstock

“I’m in shock and I have to go to my family, but this award is for her. She shaped me, she guided me and she made me. I am beyond grateful that I get to say her name to all of you through Halina,” the director continued, reading Kidman’s statement. “The collision of life and art is heartbreaking, and my heart is broken.”

After reading Kidman’s words to the packed house in Venice, Reijn said simply: “We love you all, Nicole.”

A rep for Kidman confirmed Janelle’s death to PEOPLE and said “the family is heartbroken and asks for privacy at this time.”

Nicole Kidman and her mother Janelle Ann Kidman (left) in 2003.Peter Carrette Archive/Getty

Peter Carrette Archive/Getty

TheBig Little Liesactress opened up to PEOPLE in November 2023 about how her mother influenced her career and her sense of style, sharing at the time that Janelle “is so involved in what I wear.”

Kidman also previously spoke with theSydney Morning Heraldabout the pair’s relationship. She said Janelle always encouraged her and helped her to achieve her goals.

Nicole Kidman (left) and her mother Janelle Ann Kidman in 2018.Allison Voight/SplashNews

Allison Voight/SplashNews

“She’s given me the fire to pursue the career I have because I’ve always wanted to please her,” Kidman told the outlet in 2020, per theHollywood Reporter.“But she also carved her own path and wanted her daughters to have the same opportunity to carve their own paths."

“Mum didn’t necessarily get the career that she wanted, but she was determined that her daughters would have opportunities that were equal," Kidman added. “That’s given me my life. And she gave me my life, she and my dad.”

source: people.com