Nicole Kidman Honored with AFI Life Achievement Award by A-List Friends and Collaborators
ICARO Media Group
Nicole Kidman, the renowned Hollywood actress, was celebrated with the prestigious 49th AFI Life Achievement Award on Saturday night. The event, held at the Dolby Theatre, featured an impressive lineup of A-list friends and collaborators, who paid tribute to Kidman's illustrious career. Reese Witherspoon, Morgan Freeman, Naomi Watts, Zoe Saldaña, Aaron Sorkin, Zac Efron, Miles Teller, Joey King, Mike Myers, and husband Keith Urban all took the stage to honor the talented actress.
To cap off the evening, Meryl Streep had the honor of presenting Kidman with the award. Streep, known for her wit, lightened the mood by joking about Kidman's role in the film "The Hours," where she wore a nose that resembled Streep's. Streep playfully recalled her experience of working alongside Kidman in season two of the hit series "Big Little Lies." She praised Kidman's exceptional talent and commended her immense emotional range and unwavering dedication to her craft.
Looking back on their time together, Streep shared how she was struck by Kidman's ability to deliver a powerful and emotional scene repeatedly, leaving Streep in awe. Streep referred to Kidman as a "Valkyrie" for her steadfastness and unremitting commitment to her performance.
Upon receiving the award, Kidman expressed her admiration and love for Meryl Streep, crediting her as a beacon of excellence, warmth, and generosity. Kidman acknowledged that Streep had been her guiding light throughout her career.
During her acceptance speech, Kidman reflected on her journey from Australia to Hollywood stardom, recalling the challenges she faced while trying to secure acting jobs. She spoke fondly of the actors she had the privilege of working with and expressed gratitude for the guidance and mentorship she received from her many directors. Kidman also thanked her loyal audience for supporting her diverse and unconventional film choices.
Kidman's husband, Keith Urban, emotionally shared their journey together, including his time in rehab for addiction just four months into their marriage. He praised Kidman for her unwavering love and support, emphasizing that she chose love and stood by him during his most challenging times.
The star-studded event also featured appearances from Cate Blanchett, Hugh Jackman, Jimmy Fallon, Russell Crowe, Jane Campion, George Miller, and Baz Luhrmann, who virtually congratulated Kidman for being the first Australian to receive the AFI Life Achievement Award.
Following the ceremony, Kidman and Urban attended the official after-party at the Sunset Tower Hotel, where they mingled with esteemed guests, including AFI CEO Bob Gazzale and AFI founder George Stevens Jr., who created the AFI Life Achievement Award.
Nicole Kidman's exceptional talent, dedication, and unwavering support from her friends and collaborators were truly celebrated as she received the prestigious AFI Life Achievement Award, marking yet another milestone in her remarkable career.