Nicole Kidman Training to Become a Death Doula

Nicole Kidman has shared her intention to train as a death doula—someone who offers emotional, spiritual, and practical support to those who are terminally ill and their families. This decision came about following the death of her mother.

Kidman mentioned, “My mother passed away and I was lonely, so there was a limit to what my family could do,” during her talk at the University of San Francisco. She reflected on her experience and the feelings of isolation she faced after her loss.

Despite admitting that the idea of being a death doula “sounds a little strange,” she clarified that her motivation arises from the deep sorrow she’s been carrying since her mother’s passing in 2024.

“My sister and I have a lot going on—kids, jobs—and with my dad no longer around, I felt the need to take care of her,” the 58-year-old actress explained.

“That’s part of my growth and one of the things I’m going to learn,” she added enthusiastically.

She revealed her new career direction at a sold-out event at War Memorial Gym on the University of San Francisco campus as part of their Silk Speaker Series.

The International End of Life Doula Association describes a death doula as a non-medical companion who provides compassionate support to individuals and families navigating the difficult process of dying. Their goal is to advocate for self-determination while offering psychosocial and emotional care to ensure dignity throughout the journey.

Kidman isn’t the only celebrity considering this path. Earlier this year, filmmaker Chloé Zhao expressed her own fears surrounding death, noting how they have impacted her ability to enjoy life fully. She recognized that approaching her 40s led to a midlife crisis, which she viewed as an opportunity for personal rebirth.

Zhao remarked on the necessity of confronting these fears to have a more fulfilling second half of her life. She emphasized that nothing should be so frightening that it feels insurmountable.