Nicole Kidman Pursues Death Doula Training Inspired by Loss

Nicole Kidman has shared a deeply personal reason behind an unexpected new direction in her life: she is training to become a death doula.

Speaking at the University of San Francisco’s Silk Speaker Series on April 11, 2026, the Oscar-winning actress said the decision was shaped by the loss of her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, who passed away in September 2024.

Kidman described her mother’s final days as emotionally difficult, not just because of the loss, but because of the limits of what she and her family could provide. Balancing children, careers, and caregiving responsibilities, she and her sister found it hard to be constantly present. She recalled that her mother often felt “lonely” during that time.

That experience led Kidman to think about the role of someone who could offer steady, unbiased support at the end of life. She said she became interested in the idea of “impartial solace”—a calm, compassionate presence for people who may not always have family available or who need additional emotional support.

This is where the role of a death doula comes in. Death doulas are non-medical professionals who help people and their families navigate the final stage of life. They provide emotional comfort, spiritual guidance, and practical help, focusing on dignity and presence rather than treatment or intervention.

Kidman acknowledged that the shift might seem unusual for a Hollywood actor, but framed it as part of her personal growth. She described it as an “expansion” of her life and perspective, rather than a replacement for her acting career.

She is not alone in exploring this path. Riley Keough, the granddaughter of Elvis Presley, became a certified death doula in 2021 after losing her brother. Filmmaker Chloé Zhao has also trained in the field, saying it helped her develop a healthier relationship with mortality.

Despite this new focus, Kidman is not stepping away from the screen. She continues to work on major projects, including the upcoming sequel Practical Magic 2 and the series Margo’s Got Money Troubles.