NICOLE KIDMAN DEDICATES AWARD TO LATE MOTHER AT PALM SPRINGS FILM FESTIVAL
Emotional tribute remembers Janelle Ann Kidman as actress reflects on career and loss.
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (AP) — Nicole Kidman took to the stage at the Palm Springs Film Festival to deliver a heartfelt dedication to her late mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, during the 36th annual awards gala on Friday night. The emotional moment marked not just the celebration of Kidman's recent work but also served as catharsis for her grief.
Kidman, 57, was awarded the international star gong for her role in the erotic thriller Babygirl by Jamie Lee Curtis. Overcome with emotion, Kidman referenced her mother's passing, which had occurred just before she was due to accept another prestigious award at the Venice Film Festival.
“I feel my momma right now. This is for you, momma,” Kidman said tearfully onstage, expressing both her sorrow and gratitude for the opportunity to honor Janelle Ann Kidman. “I am still grieving my mom and so I want to dedicate (this award) because I didn’t get to do it at the Venice Film Festival.”
Reflecting on her career, Kidman articulated the deep impact her parents had on her life and work: “My whole career has been for my mom and my dad, and they’re not here now but I still want to keep working and giving to the world because I love what I do, and I love you all and I’m so grateful for the privilege … I’m sorry I’m crying.”
This poignant moment occurred against the backdrop of the film festival, replete with glitz and glamour, yet punctuated by Kidman's very personal reflections. She expressed how challenging it was for her family during the holidays, noting, “Christmas was different without my parents,” referring to both her father, Antony Kidman, who passed away in September 2014, and her mother, who died last year.
Kidman emphasized the resilience and strength her parents instilled in her: “They’ve offered me the love and the strength to keep moving forward.” This dedication echoed her commitment to honoring their legacy through her continuing contributions to the film industry.
The Babygirl director, Halina Reijn, was also praised by Kidman during her speech for her dedication to the project. Kidman noted the unique opportunity she had to tackle complex roles rarely offered to women over 50, adding, “I was so lucky at this age to be asked to do those things … because you’re like, ‘Oh well, she’s too old’. But she said, ‘No, this is a gift to you’.”
Following the ceremony, Kidman enjoyed mingling with fellow artists on the red carpet. She shared joyful moments with Wicked star Ariana Grande, who greeted the Oscar winner with warm gestures of respect, bowing and kissing her hand. This exchange highlighted the admiration the younger generation holds for Kidman, whose illustrious career encompasses iconic performances.
Kidman's emotional tribute at the Palm Springs Film Festival not only spotlighted her remarkable career and achievements but also brought to the forefront the personal connections and losses she has navigated. It served as a poignant reminder of the intersection of personal and professional life, illustrating how love and loss shape the trajectories of artists.
Through this heartfelt dedication, Kidman reaffirms the importance of family, grief, and remembering those who have impacted us significantly. “This is for you, momma,” she concluded, leaving the audience moved and reflective on the powerful bond between parent and child.