Nicole Kidman is doubling down on the kind of provocative and emotionally charged performances that have defined her recent career, despite reports of her separation from country singer Keith Urban. The Oscar-winning actress, 58, has told associates she has no intention of softening her on-screen work, even as her personal life undergoes what sources describe as a "major reset."
According to the National Enquirer, insiders close to the actress say Kidman is leaning into projects with intense romantic and sensual themes and "isn't backing down" from portraying complex characters, including those involving explicit material. "Nicole's going to continue to do that stuff on her own terms," the insider told the publication, adding that her professional choices "no longer depend on how Urban feels about it."
The Australian actress, known for tackling fearless roles in Eyes Wide Shut, Big Little Lies, and the recent Babygirl, is reportedly channeling her energy into new projects that blend maturity and sensuality. She is currently filming Practical Magic 2 and preparing for the third season of Big Little Lies, both of which are said to explore emotional intimacy and vulnerability. "She's doubling down, not backing down," the source said.
Kidman's work on Big Little Lies in 2016, which earned her two Emmy Awards, marked a major turning point in her career. The series' raw depiction of trauma and intimacy helped redefine her image in Hollywood but reportedly caused tension within her marriage. One insider said that Nicole's sexy scenes bothered Urban at the time, but there wasn't anything he could do about it except cheer her on.
People close to Kidman now say the actress feels freer than ever to explore roles that challenge conventions about age and femininity in Hollywood. "There are fewer limits on what she's willing to do for the sake of a juicy role," said the insider, describing her post-divorce outlook as "fiercely independent and unapologetic."
Those who have worked with Kidman credit her for embracing her artistic freedom without compromise. The same source added that she's "one of those women who survived decades in Hollywood by staying true to herself, whether it's emotional depth or sexual intensity." Her insistence on portraying mature female characters with agency has positioned her as one of the few actresses of her generation still commanding top-tier roles.
Production sources say Kidman remains "focused on her craft" and is not letting personal changes interfere with her work. Her upcoming slate underscores that commitment. Big Little Lies 3, co-created with Reese Witherspoon, is set to begin filming next spring, and those familiar with the scripts say it will push both the drama and intimacy "even further" than previous seasons.
