Nicole Kidman has built an extensive and diverse career in Hollywood, taking on roles that showcase her adaptability and depth as an actress. From psychological thrillers to musical dramas, Kidman has continually delivered compelling performances. Below is a look at some of her most iconic roles that have defined her career.
Dead Calm (1989) Kidman gained widespread recognition with her role in Dead Calm, a psychological thriller in which she played a grieving wife on a sailing trip with her husband. The film follows her character as she navigates an increasingly perilous situation after rescuing a survivor from a sinking ship. At just 19 years old, Kidman demonstrated her ability to convey both vulnerability and growing tension, setting the stage for her future successes.
To Die For (1995) In this dark comedy, Kidman played an ambitious news anchor determined to achieve fame at any cost. Her character orchestrates the murder of her husband to eliminate obstacles in her path to success. The role allowed Kidman to display both her comedic timing and her capacity for intense drama, further cementing her status in Hollywood.
Practical Magic (1998) Kidman charmed audiences in Practical Magic, a fantasy romance where she portrayed a free-spirited woman from a family of witches. The role showcased her ability to balance playfulness with dramatic weight, making her character both engaging and memorable.
Moulin Rouge! (2001) A significant milestone in Kidman’s career came with her portrayal of Satine, a cabaret singer in 1899 Paris, in Moulin Rouge!. The film, blending music and romance, featured Kidman in a performance filled with sincerity and emotional depth. Her portrayal earned her a Golden Globe and reinforced her ability to excel in a variety of genres.
The Hours (2002) Kidman’s portrayal of Virginia Woolf in The Hours won her the Academy Award for Best Actress. Her transformation into a deeply introspective writer showcased her ability to embody complex historical figures with authenticity. The role highlighted her skill in depicting internal struggles and added another accolade to her growing list of achievements.
Big Little Lies (2017-2019) In this critically acclaimed television series, Kidman played a woman facing domestic abuse while maintaining the appearance of a perfect life. Her performance was widely praised, earning her a Golden Globe and an Emmy Award. Her nuanced depiction of her character’s emotional turmoil contributed significantly to the show’s success.
The Undoing (2020) Kidman took on the role of a successful therapist whose life is upended by a shocking revelation in The Undoing. Her portrayal of a woman grappling with uncertainty and distress demonstrated her ability to carry a suspense-driven narrative, keeping audiences engaged throughout the series.
Expats (2024) In Expats, Kidman continued her streak of compelling television performances, playing a character immersed in themes of grief and guilt. Set in Hong Kong, the series provided another opportunity for Kidman to bring emotional depth to the screen.With a career spanning decades and numerous accolades to her name, Kidman remains a leading force in film and television. Her upcoming role in the Netflix miniseries The Perfect Couple, set to premiere in September, is yet another testament to her enduring influence in the industry.