Nicole Kidman recently revealed she had to pause the filming process for her latest movie, explaining that she had reached a point where she felt she ‘couldn’t org*** anymore.’ The 57-year-old award-winning actress has been candid about the emotional and physical intensity of working on the bold, provocative scenes opposite her co-star Harris Dickinson, 28, known for his role in The Iron Claw. Their collaboration takes center stage in the upcoming psychological thriller Babygirl.
This latest role marks a stark departure from Kidman’s previous projects, pushing the boundaries of her artistic comfort zone in a way she describes as ‘intensely demanding.’
During a guest appearance on The Graham Norton Show, Kidman was questioned about whether the high volume of intimate scenes in Babygirl concerned her. She confidently responded: ‘Not at all. I was drawn to the script’s uniqueness and the opportunity to champion women in the industry. It was exciting, daring, and creatively fulfilling. I’m constantly seeking roles that challenge me as an artist, and this script was a bold leap.’
When asked why she pursued such an audacious role, she elaborated: ‘Acting, for me, has always been about exploring uncharted territories. I’m always asking myself, “Where haven’t I been yet? What aspects of the human experience can I still explore?” This role offered me a chance to dive into an entirely new realm I had never navigated before.’
Kidman, married to celebrated country singer Keith Urban for 18 years, shares two daughters with him. Balancing a demanding career with family life, she explained the complexities of filming scenes so emotionally intense while being a devoted wife and mother.
‘Being part of a family unit means seeking mutual understanding. Before I delve into a project this emotionally consuming, I have a conversation with my family. I essentially ask for their emotional permission to temporarily disconnect from our home life and immerse myself in my artistic world. There’s a necessary emotional release involved, where I step fully into my character but always return to my true self when filming concludes.’
In Babygirl, directed by Halina Reijn and distributed by the acclaimed studio A24, Kidman portrays a high-powered CEO who jeopardizes her successful career and personal stability by engaging in a passionate affair with a younger intern, played by Dickinson. The star-studded cast also features Talk To Me breakout actress Sophie Wilde and The Mask of Zorro icon Antonio Banderas.
The provocative nature of the script has generated significant buzz, particularly after Kidman’s recent recognition at the Venice Film Festival. Her powerful performance earned her critical acclaim, culminating in the Best Actress award and a standing ovation lasting seven minutes, as reported by Deadline.
While promoting the film, Kidman opened up about the psychological toll such emotionally charged scenes had on her. Speaking candidly with The Sun, she confessed that the intensity became so overwhelming at one point that she had to step away from the set. ‘The experience was so emotionally raw and physically demanding that I had to pause. There was this overwhelming feeling of vulnerability and frustration. I remember saying, “I don’t want to org*** anymore. Don’t touch me. I can’t keep doing this. I don’t care if I’m never touched again. I’m exhausted.”’
In another interview with Vanity Fair, she expanded on how the demanding nature of the role left her emotionally depleted. ‘It was as if I had been stripped bare, both mentally and physically. The process was cathartic but also deeply exhausting.’
Babygirl, highly anticipated for its bold storytelling and striking performances, is set to hit U.S. theaters on Christmas Day and will be released in the U.K. on January 10.