Tragedy forces Nicole Kidman to leave Venice before receiving award

The actress was due to receive the Volpi Cup for Best Actress last night. But she had to take an emergency flight home due to the sudden death of her mother.

These last few days have been full of emotion for Nicole KidmanOn August 30, the Hollywood star walked the red carpet of the 81st Venice Film Festival to present Babybgirlthe film by Halina Reijn in which she plays opposite Antonio Banderas. A few days later, she released her new hit series on Netflix, A Perfect Couple.

And yesterday should have been the night of consecration for her. The Jury chaired by Isabelle Huppert decided to award her the Best Actress Award. Nicole Kidman had even flown back to Italy to attend the ceremony and receive the prestigious Volpi Cup on the stage of La Scala. But the news of his mother's death changed everything.

She is the director of Babygirl, Halina Reijnwho came on stage to accept the award on her behalf. She read a few words written by Kidman on this special occasion:

“Today, shortly after arriving in Venice, I learned of the passing of my courageous and beautiful mother, Janelle Anne Kidman.” confided Nicole Kidman last night. “I am in shock and I have to go see my family. But this award is for her. She shaped me, she guided me and she created me. I am extremely grateful to be able to speak her name in front of you all through Halina. The collision between life and art is heartbreaking. My heart is broken.”

The mother of Nicole Kidman was a nursing school professor and member of the Women's Electoral Lobby, an Australian feminist group. She was 84.