Check out the top ten memorable moments from Nicole Kidman's career that showcase her talent, charm, and advocacy, from her iconic performances to her heartfelt speeches and unique quirks.
Welcome to a celebration of Nicole Kidman, one of Hollywood's most beloved actresses. We will explore ten unforgettable moments from her illustrious career that have won over the hearts of millions. From her dazzling performances to her candid moments on screen, Kidman has consistently demonstrated her versatility and charm.
10. Clapping Back at Giada De Laurentiis
In May 2017, Nicole Kidman appeared on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, where she found herself in a cooking segment with celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis. The segment began with De Laurentiis making a snide remark about Kidman's cooking skills, prompting an eye roll from the actress. Kidman later humorously critiqued De Laurentiis' focaccia, saying it was a bit hard to keep down. This playful exchange showcased Kidman's ability to handle criticism with grace and humor.
9. The Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend Scene
Kidman solidified her status as a versatile actress with her performance as Satine in Moulin Rouge. One of her most memorable moments was her rendition of "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend," a classic jazz number. Despite suffering a knee injury during filming, Kidman delivered a flawless performance, twirling and captivating the audience with her charm and dedication.
8. The Chanel No. 5 Commercial
In 2004, Kidman starred in a lavish Chanel No. 5 commercial directed by Baz Luhrmann, which became one of the most expensive ads ever made, with a budget of $33 million. The ad featured Kidman as a glamorous star escaping the paparazzi, and her effortless charm made the commercial a standout piece that set the standard for future fashion advertisements.
7. The Seal Clapping at the Oscars
At the 2017 Oscars, Kidman became an internet sensation due to her unique clapping style, which resembled a seal trying to clap its flippers together. This moment, which occurred while she was applauding for Moonlight, sparked a flurry of memes. Kidman later explained that she was trying to protect her expensive ring, turning an awkward moment into a quirky highlight of the night.
6. The 1997 Oscars Red Carpet Look
In 1997, Kidman made a stunning appearance at the Oscars in a chartreuse Christian Dior dress that upstaged her then-husband Tom Cruise. The gown was hailed as one of the most influential Oscar gowns ever, showcasing Kidman's refined style and elegance. Despite some criticism, including Joan Rivers calling the color ugly, Kidman's fashion choice remains iconic.
5. The Courtroom Scene from Big Little Lies
Kidman's return to television in Big Little Lies earned her an Emmy Award for her role as Celeste Wright. One of the standout moments was a tense courtroom scene where she faced off against Meryl Streep's character. Kidman's powerful performance conveyed deep emotion and showcased her acting prowess, winning the hearts of viewers.
4. Her 2017 Emmys Acceptance Speech
When Kidman won her first Emmy for Big Little Lies, she used her acceptance speech to address the issue of domestic violence. Fighting back tears, she highlighted the importance of her character's story and thanked her family for their support. Her heartfelt words resonated with many, proving her commitment to using her platform for advocacy.
3. The 2015 Tonight Show Appearance
In a memorable 2015 appearance on The Tonight Show, Kidman recounted an awkward encounter with host Jimmy Fallon that could have changed everything. She had a crush on him and thought they were going on a date, but Fallon was unaware and believed it was a chemistry read for her movie Bewitched. This humorous revelation made for an entertaining segment and showcased Kidman's relatable side.
2. The AMC Theaters Commercial
In 2021, Kidman starred in an AMC Theaters commercial that became a cultural phenomenon. The ad reminded audiences of the magic of cinema, resonating deeply with moviegoers during the pandemic. Its melodramatic narration and cinematic direction turned it into a viral sensation, with audiences quoting it in theaters.
1. Pledge to Work with Female Directors
In 2017, Kidman made a bold pledge to work with at least one female director every 18 months to combat gender disparity in Hollywood. As of February 2025, she has collaborated with 19 women directors, far exceeding her initial goal. This commitment has led to remarkable projects, including the second season of Big Little Lies and the Netflix miniseries The Perfect Couple. Kidman's dedication to uplifting female filmmakers is a testament to her influence in the industry.
Nicole Kidman's career is filled with moments that highlight her talent, charm, and advocacy. From her iconic performances to her heartfelt speeches, she continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world. What is your favorite Nicole Kidman moment?