Nicole Kidman Movies and TV Shows: A Complete Guide to Her Most Iconic Roles

Nicole Kidman is a globally acclaimed Australian actress known for her captivating performances in both films and television. With a career spanning over three decades, she has taken on a wide range of roles—from period dramas to psychological thrillers—that showcase her incredible versatility. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most iconic Nicole Kidman movies and TV shows that define her legacy in Hollywood.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering her work, this article offers a comprehensive overview of Kidman’s most celebrated performances, her award-winning roles, and must-watch projects across streaming platforms.

Early Breakthrough Roles

Nicole Kidman’s acting career began in Australia in the early 1980s, but her breakthrough came with the 1989 thriller Dead Calm. Her role as Rae Ingram showcased her ability to portray intense emotion and vulnerability, setting the stage for her Hollywood debut.

Shortly after, she starred alongside Tom Cruise in Days of Thunder (1990), which not only boosted her career but also marked the beginning of her prominence in American cinema. This movie kicked off a decade of roles that would establish Kidman as a leading lady in Hollywood.

Blockbusters and Critically Acclaimed Films

Moulin Rouge! (2001)

One of the most defining Nicole Kidman movies is Moulin Rouge!, directed by Baz Luhrmann. Her role as Satine, a glamorous courtesan, earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film blended musical, romance, and drama, helping redefine the modern musical genre.

The Hours (2002)

Kidman won her first Oscar for The Hours, where she portrayed writer Virginia Woolf. The physical and emotional transformation she underwent for the role earned her widespread critical acclaim and solidified her status as one of the top actresses of her generation.

Cold Mountain (2003) and Dogville (2003)

In Cold Mountain, Kidman starred opposite Jude Law and Renee Zellweger in a Civil War epic that showcased her dramatic range. That same year, she took a bold step into avant-garde cinema with Lars von Trier’s Dogville, demonstrating her commitment to unconventional and challenging roles.

Nicole Kidman in TV Shows: Dominating the Small Screen

While known primarily for her film work, Nicole Kidman’s TV shows have played a significant role in redefining her career in recent years. The transition from film to television has allowed her to explore more complex, long-form characters.

Big Little Lies (2017–2019)

Arguably one of the most iconic TV roles of her career, Kidman starred as Celeste Wright in HBO’s Big Little Lies, based on the novel by Liane Moriarty. The show tackled domestic abuse, friendship, and motherhood. Her raw and emotional portrayal earned her an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe, cementing her as a powerhouse in television drama.

The Undoing (2020)

In The Undoing, Kidman played Grace Fraser, a psychologist entangled in a murder investigation. The psychological thriller kept audiences on the edge of their seats and showcased her ability to carry a show with suspense and elegance.

Nine Perfect Strangers (2021)

Based on another Liane Moriarty novel, Nine Perfect Strangers saw Kidman in the role of Masha, a mysterious wellness guru. The Hulu limited series demonstrated her knack for playing enigmatic, complex characters in ensemble casts.

Recent and Upcoming Nicole Kidman Projects

Kidman continues to take on roles that challenge and expand her artistic horizons. Her recent performances include:

Being the Ricardos (2021) – She portrayed Lucille Ball, a role that earned her an Academy Award nomination.

Expats (2024) – In this Amazon Prime series, Kidman plays a woman whose life is upended by a sudden disappearance in Hong Kong. The show explores themes of motherhood, identity, and cultural displacement.

Fans can also look forward to Lioness, a spy thriller TV series in development by Taylor Sheridan, where Kidman will star and produce.

Must-Watch Nicole Kidman Movies and TV Shows (Quick List)

Here’s a curated list of must-watch titles for fans and newcomers alike:

Movies

Moulin Rouge!

The Hours

Eyes Wide Shut

To Die For

Lion

The Others

Bombshell

Aquaman

TV Shows

Big Little Lies

The Undoing

Nine Perfect Strangers

Expats

Roar (Apple TV+)

Why Nicole Kidman Remains an Icon

Few actresses have managed to balance blockbuster appeal with critical acclaim as gracefully as Nicole Kidman. Her ability to immerse herself in diverse characters—across both film and television—keeps her performances fresh and emotionally resonant. She also remains a strong advocate for women’s rights in the entertainment industry, using her platform to produce stories centered around complex female leads.

From romantic epics and psychological thrillers to high-concept dramas, Nicole Kidman movies and TV shows offer something for every type of viewer. Her evolving portfolio proves that she is not just a star but a true artist whose work will continue to captivate audiences for years to come.

FAQs

Did Nicole Kidman win any awards for her TV roles?

Yes, Nicole Kidman has won several prestigious awards for her television performances, including:

Emmy Award – For Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or TV Movie for Big Little Lies (2017).

Golden Globe Award – For Best Actress in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for TV for Big Little Lies (2017) and The Undoing (2020).

What is Nicole Kidman’s most famous TV role?

Nicole Kidman’s most famous TV role is arguably Celeste Wright in HBO’s Big Little Lies. Her portrayal of a woman struggling with an abusive marriage earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe.

Is Nicole Kidman’s career mostly in movies or TV shows?

Nicole Kidman is primarily known for her work in movies. However, in recent years, she has expanded her career into television and has starred in several successful TV series, including Big Little Lies, The Undoing, and Nine Perfect Strangers. Both her film and TV roles have contributed to her status as one of the most accomplished actresses in Hollywood.

How has Nicole Kidman’s career evolved over the years?

Nicole Kidman’s career began with Australian films in the 1980s, eventually transitioning to Hollywood where she became known for her roles in both mainstream blockbusters and critically acclaimed films. In recent years, she has embraced more complex roles in television, proving her versatility as an actress. Kidman’s ability to take on a variety of characters—from romantic leads to complex anti-heroes—has solidified her place as a true icon in both film and television.

Why is Nicole Kidman considered one of the greatest actresses of all time?

Nicole Kidman is considered one of the greatest actresses due to her ability to seamlessly transition between genres and her skill in portraying complex, emotionally-charged characters. She has received numerous prestigious awards, including an Academy Award, Emmy Awards, and Golden Globes, which demonstrate her critical acclaim. Her dedication to her craft and her willingness to take on diverse roles have contributed to her lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

To Conclude

Whether you’re revisiting her classics or diving into her latest series, there’s no denying the breadth and depth of Nicole Kidman’s career. As you explore Nicole Kidman movies and TV shows, you’ll experience a masterclass in acting—one role at a time. For more updates on Nicole Kidman’s upcoming projects and reviews of her work, stay tuned to our entertainment blog.

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