CinemaNicole Kidman wins Best Actress at Venice and leaves festival after mother’s death’I’m in shock and need to go to my family, but this award is for her’today at 6:19 pm

Nicole Kidman won the Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival last Saturday, September 7, for her performance in the film Babygirl. However, the actress had to leave the event early after being informed of the death of her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman. Halina Reijn, director of the film, announced Kidman’s absence and read her acceptance speech during the ceremony.

In her statement, the actress explained that she arrived at the Venice festival only to receive news of her mother’s death shortly after. In her words, read by Reijn:

I just found out that my beautiful and courageous mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, has just passed away. I am in shock and need to be with my family, but this award is for her. She shaped me, guided me and made me. I am so grateful to be able to speak her name to all of you through Halina.”

The director concluded the actress’s speech in an emotional way: “The collision between life and art is devastating, and my heart is broken.” After reading Kidman’s words, Reijn concluded by saying: “We love you, Nicole.”

In contact with PEOPLEa representative for Kidman confirmed Janelle Ann Kidman’s passing and stated that “the family is devastated and asks for privacy at this time.”

Nicole Kidman had a very close relationship with her mother, which she had made clear on several occasions. In an interview with Sydney Morning HeraldKidman revealed that her mother always supported her in her choices and encouraged her to follow her dreams. “She gave me the drive to pursue the career I have because I always wanted to please her,” said the actress in 2020, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

The actress also reflected on the path Janelle took and how she made sure her daughters had the same opportunities.

Mom didn’t necessarily have the career she wanted, but she was determined to make sure her daughters had equal opportunities. That gave me my life. And she gave me my life, her and my dad.”