Nicole Kidman's mother dies, actress misses victory at the Venice Film Festival

Nicole Kidman was given a great honor at this year's Venice Film Festival, but due to a personal loss she was unable to accept it in person.

The 57-year-old “Big Little Lies” star won the prestigious Volpi Cup for best actress on Saturday for her new film “Babygirl.” During the awards ceremony, the film's director, Halina Reijn, shared that Kidman was unable to attend after learning that her mother had died.

Kidman said she learned of the death of her “beautiful, brave” mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, 84, shortly after arriving in Venice that day, according to a statement read by Reijn.

“I am in shock and need to go to my family,” the statement said. “But this award is for her. She shaped me, she guided me and she created me.”

The “Eyes Wide Shut” star added, “My heart is broken.” Reijn expressed his condolences after reading Kidman's remarks. “We all love you, Nicole,” the filmmaker said.

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