Nicole Kidman Makes History as First Australian to Receive American Film Institute Lifetime Achievement Award

Nicole Kidman has made history by becoming the first Australian actor to receive the prestigious American Film Institute Lifetime Achievement Award. This accolade, considered the highest honor in American cinema, has previously been awarded to iconic figures such as Julie Andrews, Al Pacino, and Meryl Streep, among others.

The Academy Award winner, originally from Sydney, expressed her deep gratitude on social media upon receiving the honor. She shared her excitement and thanked the American Film Institute for including her in this esteemed group of honorees.

In a nostalgic Instagram post, Kidman reflected on her early acting days, sharing a video from her first film, ‘Bush Christmas,’ which she starred in as a teenager back in 1983. She marveled at the journey that started when she was just 14 years old.

During the award ceremony at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, industry heavyweights like Meryl Streep, Reese Witherspoon, and Naomi Watts paid tribute to Kidman. These acclaimed actors honored Kidman’s versatile career and outstanding performances on screen.

The AFI acknowledgment praised Kidman for her captivating performances, calling her a ‘powerhouse performer’ known for her courageous choices and bold portrayals in each role she takes on. Kidman has earned acclaim for her work in notable films like ‘The Hours,’ ‘Dead Calm,’ ‘Moulin Rouge,’ and ‘Lion,’ among others.

Aside from her film accomplishments, Kidman has also found success in television with shows like ‘Big Little Lies‘ and ‘The Undoing.’ She has ventured into theatre as well, showcasing her talent in London’s West End productions.

This recognition adds to Kidman’s long list of achievements, including being honored in her homeland with The Companion of the Order of Australia. Additionally, she received the 70th Anniversary Prize from the Cannes Film Festival in 2017 for her contributions to the industry.

The AFI Lifetime Achievement Award has previously been bestowed upon only 11 women in its history. Kidman’s accomplishment as the first Australian recipient further solidifies her status as one of the most successful talents in Hollywood.

While Kidman was the star of the evening, the ceremony also saw the presence of other notable figures, making it a glamorous affair reminiscent of awards season events.