An intense exchange between Salma Hayek and Nicole Kidman at the Balenciaga fashion show gained widespread attention. An insider exclusively claimed that the scenario was "misinterpreted."
“There is nothing to this. They are close friends,” an unnamed source told Life & Style Magazine. “Salma and Nicole truly love each other.”
Salma, 58, and Nicole, 57, participated in the Paris Balenciaga Ready-to-Wear spring fashion show on September 30. During a photo session, a photographer asked for "one more" shot of the duo, prompting the Frida star to adjust the Australian actress's orientation to face the camera. Nicole and Salma engaged in brief conversation until Nicole grasped Salma's hand, ostensibly redirecting it to the side.
The "Gone Girl" actress turned to acknowledge singer Katy Perry, engaged in a brief conversation with Salma, and subsequently departed. The content of their discussion remains ambiguous; nonetheless, following Nicole's departure, Salma reportedly remarked, “Yes, please.” Guidance.
Body language and behavioral expert Darren Stanton informed In Touch Weekly that he perceived the uncomfortable conversation to stem from an "etiquette issue."
“The critical moment seems to be that Nicole was posing for photos with Katy Perry. As Nicole goes to walk away, Salma pulls her back, puts her hand across her and pushes her back into [formation],” Darren told the outlet on Monday, October 14.
“However, Nicole has had enough, and she isn’t playing ball. Salma comes at it, likely, from the view it is of correct etiquette to pose for photos for the paps, and Nicole wants to walk away. Nicole has taken exception, and that’s where the altercation has come from," he went on.
Furthermore, the expert posited that the heated moment constituted an “assertion of power” and a “battle of egos” between the two luminaries.
Nicole gestures with her finger, elevates it, and shakes her hand, implying her refusal. Darren explained that Salma raised her hand in a manner reminiscent of a police officer directing traffic. She is attempting to guide Nicole's movement away from her intended direction. As Nicole departed in her selected direction, Salma executed an impressive chin thrust reminiscent of Conor McGregor.
The pair possesses strong connections to the luxury brand, as Salma is wed to François-Henri Pinault, who assumed leadership of Kering. This luxury goods conglomerate encompasses multiple brands, including Balenciaga, in 2005. In 2023, Nicole was appointed as a brand ambassador for the label.
As of publishing, neither Salma nor Nicole has acknowledged the uncomfortable incident. The "From Dusk to Dawn" star seemingly dispelled reports of a conflict with Nicole by posting a photograph of them together on her Instagram profile, PEOPLE Magazine reported.
“Finally last night the grand finale of my Paris Fashion Week 2025,” the Mexican actress captioned the snap on October 1. “[Clapping emoji] Balenciaga and Demna for a terrific show.” She also tagged Nicole and Katy’s Instagram handles.
Business Times has reached out to Nicole Kidman and Salma Hayek for comments.
