For more than forty years, Nicole Kidman has captivated audiences worldwide with her astonishing range, striking grace and fearless choices. Behind the Oscar-winning actress, however, lies a woman shaped by simplicity, intelligence and a socially conscious upbringing. During her conversation with Together Magazine, Kidman reflects on the experiences that defined her—from travelling alone across Europe at 17 to embracing the emotionally demanding roles that built her legacy. She speaks openly about ambition, regret, love, motherhood and her continued search for meaning.
Adventure as a Way of Life
Q: Nicole, your sense of adventure seems to have been a constant thread throughout your life. Where did that begin?
Nicole Kidman:
“I feel I owe it to myself to constantly give things a go. I had a very loving, relatively simple childhood, but the idea of ambition really sparked during drama school. That’s when taking risks and embracing opportunities became part of who I am.
“My parents were successful because they seized the chances they were given. So at 17, I packed a few things, got on a plane and backpacked through Europe. It felt like a good idea—and it truly was. It set the tone for everything that followed.”
Looking Back with Honesty
Q: Looking back, are there any choices you might have made differently?
Kidman:
“Of course—there are always regrets. I was married at 23. I was happy in many ways, but I’d probably hesitate to recommend marrying that young. Some decisions, especially the spontaneous ones, are better left to maturity. I was always in a hurry, and the truth is you don’t always need to be.”
A Career of Depth and Meaning
Q: You’ve had such a long and diverse career. What stands out most when you reflect on it?
Kidman:
“It isn’t the accolades or the glamorous roles. What stays with me are the opportunities to tell stories that truly moved people. I’m proud of the films and series that sparked conversation, bridged cultures or offered comfort to someone during a difficult time.
“The transformative power of storytelling is enormous. If a project touches even one person, that’s a triumph for me. The connections forged through those narratives—on screen and off—are what I cherish most.”
Becoming Virginia Woolf
Q: One of your most lauded performances was as Virginia Woolf in The Hours. How did that role affect you?
Kidman:
“Playing Virginia Woolf was extraordinary. She was brilliant but tormented, and the role required stripping everything back—emotionally and physically. It also connected deeply with my advocacy work. Whether it’s through UNICEF or the UN Development Fund for Women, I’ve always felt a responsibility to use my platform. Storytelling and activism feel closely intertwined.”
The Influence of Her Mother
Q: You’ve been a vocal advocate for women and children. Did your mother’s influence shape that?
Kidman:
“Absolutely. As a teenager, I watched my mother battle breast cancer. She survived, thankfully, but her sudden passing last September was devastating. She was my compass. She believed in my career and in the woman she wanted my sister and me to become—women who could express themselves freely and seize the opportunities she never had. Her essence has guided my entire life.”
Family as Her Anchor
Q: How important is family to you today?
Kidman:
“Family is everything. I have two daughters with Keith, and two adopted children from my earlier marriage. We live in Nashville, but we travel often to Australia, usually quietly. My daughters cherish those trips. Connecting with my sister, nieces and nephews—it’s vital to who I am.
“No matter how long I’ve lived abroad, Australia remains a part of my soul. I always long for its familiar charm.”
Choosing Roles That Challenge
Q: Your recent roles—from Expats to Special Ops: Lioness to Aquaman—show impressive range. What do you look for in a role now?
Kidman:
“Variety. I want roles that interest me, that are textured and complex. That goes for life too. Whatever you are—a mother, a businesswoman, an actress—mixing things up is essential for fulfilment and, honestly, sanity. We all deserve that.”
Nicole Kidman remains a rare combination of artistry, vulnerability and strength. As she continues to challenge conventions, pursue meaningful storytelling and stay grounded in her values, one thing becomes unmistakably clear—her journey is far from over.
