After dominating 2024 with five major film and TV projects—including the buzzy thriller Pretty Things and her Critics’ Choice-winning turn in The Last Anniversary—Nicole Kidman is finally hitting pause. In an exclusive chat with Variety, the Oscar winner revealed her 2025 calendar will be “not as crazy” as last year’s sprint, swapping Hollywood’s hustle culture for something deeper: time.
“I’ve been racing nonstop like I’m on a bullet train,” Kidman laughed, referencing her jam-packed 2024. “But now? I need to breathe. For me, acting isn’t about stacking projects—it’s about living inside a character, and that takes patience.”
Fans know Kidman’s relentless work ethic—she’s been a staple on screens since Big Little Lies reignited her TV career in 2017. But insiders say her slowdown isn’t just about rest. Rumor has it she’s eyeing a “transformative” role in a 2026 indie drama, with plans to shadow real-life activists for months to prep. “Nicole doesn’t do half-measures,” a source close to the star shared. “If she’s stepping back, it’s because she’s cooking up something big.”
The shift comes as Hollywood’s A-listers increasingly reject back-to-back blockbusters. Margot Robbie, Timothée Chalamet, and Zendaya have all recently prioritized “slow burns” over quantity, a trend Kidman fully backs. “Audiences can tell when you’re rushing,” she said. “I’d rather blow minds with one unforgettable performance than five ‘just okay’ ones.”
But don’t expect Kidman to vanish entirely. She’ll still produce Amazon’s Expats S2 and make “select” appearances (like her viral AMC ad remix at the 2024 Emmys). Still, the star insists her focus is clear: “This year, I’m choosing me—my art, my family, my peace. Hollywood’s chaos can wait.”
Reactions? Fans are split. While some mourn fewer Kidman releases, others praise her gutsy move. “Queen of prioritizing craft over clout!” tweeted a film buff. Another joked: “Guess we’ll have to rewatch Moulin Rouge! for the 100th time…”
One thing’s certain: When Kidman returns, she’ll demand your full attention. Buckle up… slowly.