Nicole Kidman leaves Venice Film Festival after mother’s death aged 83

Nicole Kidman had to make a heart-wrenching exit from the 81st Venice International Film Festival following the devastating news of her mother’s passing.

The acclaimed actress, who was awarded the prestigious Volpi Cup for Best Actress for her role in *Babygirl*, was notably absent during the ceremony. In her place, the film’s director, Halina Reijn, accepted the award. With a heavy heart, Reijn explained that Kidman had rushed home after receiving the heartbreaking news about her mother.

In a statement shared by director Halina Reijn, Nicole Kidman revealed that she had received the heartbreaking news of her mother Janelle Ann Kidman’s passing shortly after arriving in Venice that same day.

“I’m in shock, and I need to be with my family,” the statement read. “But this award is for her. She shaped me, guided me, and made me who I am.”

The Australian star also expressed, “My heart is broken,” as Reijn read the statement, drawing audible gasps from the audience.

As reported by *USA Today*, Kidman had opened up in 2022 about her mother’s health struggles, revealing that she had been in Australia to care for her during that difficult time.

Kidman shared, “Because of how close we are, my mother has been giving me the gift of seeing the world through the eyes of an 81-year-old woman.”

The 57-year-old actress added, “It’s such a valuable experience right now because she’s so sharp. She hasn’t lost a single mental faculty or memory, which is incredible. She’s incredibly bright, direct, and honest.”

Both of Kidman’s parents were Australian. Her father, a psychologist, passed away 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

At the time of her passing, Nicole Kidman’s mother was 83 and had often accompanied her daughter on red carpets over the years.

In *Babygirl*, Kidman portrays a powerful CEO entangled in a romantic affair with a young intern. The film made its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival, where it received a standing ovation lasting seven minutes.

Kidman was reportedly moved to tears by the audience’s response and embraced director Halina Reijn after the screening.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Nicole Kidman during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Janelle Ann Kidman.