Early Life
Full Name: Nicole Mary Kidman
- Born: June 20, 1967
- Birthplace: Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
- Nationality: Holds dual citizenship in Australia and the United States
- Parents:
- Father: Antony Kidman (clinical psychologist and biochemist)
- Mother: Janelle Ann Kidman (nursing instructor and feminist activist)
Nicole’s family moved to Sydney, Australia when she was 4 years old. Encouraged by her parents, she studied ballet and acting as a child, eventually attending North Sydney Girls’ High School and enrolling in acting classes at the Philip Street Theatre in Sydney.
Early Career
- Film Debut: Bush Christmas (1983) – an Australian holiday film.
- First Major Success: Dead Calm (1989) – her role as Rae Ingram garnered international attention for her intense and mature performance.
Breakthrough in Hollywood
Nicole’s Hollywood breakthrough came with “Days of Thunder” (1990), where she starred opposite Tom Cruise. The two married in 1990, which further spotlighted her career.
Career Highlights
Nicole Kidman is known for her versatility, striking presence, and ability to portray complex characters. Her career spans over three decades and includes drama, thrillers, musicals, and independent films.
Notable Films
- 1990s:
- Days of Thunder (1990)
- Far and Away (1992)
- To Die For (1995) – won a Golden Globe for Best Actress.
- Eyes Wide Shut (1999) – Directed by Stanley Kubrick, alongside Tom Cruise.
- 2000s:
- Moulin Rouge! (2001) – Played the courtesan Satine, earning an Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe win.
- The Others (2001).
- The Hours (2002) – Portrayed Virginia Woolf, winning the Academy Award for Best Actress.
- Cold Mountain (2003).
- 2010s:
- Rabbit Hole (2010) – Oscar-nominated for her role as a grieving mother.
- The Paperboy (2012).
- Lion (2016) – Earned another Oscar nomination.
- Aquaman (2018) – Played Queen Atlanna in the DC superhero film.
- 2020s:
- The Undoing (2020) – HBO limited series with Hugh Grant.
- Being the Ricardos (2021) – Portrayed Lucille Ball, earning an Oscar nomination.
Television Success
Nicole Kidman has also found significant success in television:
- Big Little Lies (2017-2019) – Co-produced and starred as Celeste Wright, winning an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe.
- The Undoing (2020) – Received critical acclaim for her role.
- Nine Perfect Strangers (2021) – Also served as executive producer.
Awards and Honors
- Academy Award: Best Actress for The Hours (2002).
- Golden Globes: 6 wins out of 17 nominations.
- BAFTA Award: Best Actress for The Hours.
- Primetime Emmy Awards: 2 wins for Big Little Lies.
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: Star awarded in 2003.
Personal Life
- Marriages:
- Tom Cruise (1990-2001) – Adopted two children, Isabella and Connor.
- Keith Urban (2006-present) – Country music star; they have two daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret.
- Philanthropy:
- UNICEF and UNIFEM Goodwill Ambassador: Advocates for women’s rights and global children’s causes.
- Active supporter of breast cancer research and humanitarian work.
Entrepreneurship
- Production Company:
- Blossom Films, founded in 2010, has produced Big Little Lies, The Undoing, and Nine Perfect Strangers.
Legacy
Nicole Kidman is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of her generation. Her fearless approach to challenging roles, her dedication to storytelling, and her influence in both film and television have cemented her legacy in Hollywood. Known for her poise, elegance, and commitment to her craft, she continues to inspire audiences and fellow actors worldwide.
