Nicole Kidman Embarks on Unconventional Journey: Training as a 'Death Doula'

Nicole Kidman is charting a unique course in her career.

During a recent event at the University of San Francisco's War Memorial Gym, the 58-year-old actress revealed her pursuit of becoming a death doula. This announcement came during a conversation with investigative journalist Vicky Nguyen, part of the school's Silk Speaker Series.

Kidman candidly noted that the concept might seem "a little weird," but it emerged from her personal experience following the death of her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, who passed away at 84 in September 2024.

"As my mother was passing, she was lonely, and there was only so much the family could provide," Kidman shared with the audience, as reported. With four children of her own and her sister Antonia Kidman having six, she reflected on the challenges of balancing family obligations and careers during such a difficult time.

She expressed a desire for more support, stating, "I wish there were people in the world that were there to sit impartially and just provide solace and care." This realization has fueled her decision to learn about end-of-life care.

Death doulas, or end-of-life doulas, play a crucial role in providing emotional and practical support to individuals and their families during the final stages of life. According to the International End-of-Life Doula Association, these professionals advocate for self-determination and offer psychosocial, emotional, spiritual, and practical care to ensure dignity throughout the dying process.

Kidman has openly discussed her grief following the deaths of both her parents. Her father, Dr. Antony Kidman, died in 2014, and she has often reflected on the profound impact of their loss. Just a month after her mother's passing, she described her mother as a "compass" and a "major guide" in her life. Kidman recounted waking up "crying and gasping" as she navigated the pain of losing both parents.

She learned of her mother's death while attending the Venice Film Festival for her film Babygirl and left early to be with her family. During what would have been her acceptance speech for best actress, director Halina Reijn read a letter on Kidman's behalf. In it, she expressed her sorrow, stating that she had traveled to Venice only to learn of her mother's passing.

In March 2025, Kidman honored her mother on what would have been her 85th birthday with an emotional tribute on Instagram. “Missing Mumma and Papa so much on what would have been her birthday today,” she wrote alongside a cherished photo of her parents. A year later, she continued to remember her mother, posting, "Remembering my Mumma on her birthday. Always in my heart."