Meryl Streep shared a surprising fact about Nicole Kidman before filming Big Little Lies, stating that Kidman goes skinny-dipping in the ocean before dawn, even in chilly temperatures. Streep praised Kidman’s talent and described her as a “wild mongrel talent” and a mustang, workhorse, and champion racer all in one. She commended Kidman for her range of work and accomplishments, noting that it would take a normal person three lifetimes to achieve what Kidman has done. Streep also expressed her awe of Kidman’s ability to juggle her busy life and career.
Additionally, Streep lauded Kidman’s acting skills after witnessing her performance in season 2 of Big Little Lies, which aired in 2019. She emphasized that when an actress like Kidman bares all and dives deep into the darker aspects of being human, it is not just bravery but love for the craft. Streep highlighted Kidman’s blend of appetite, curiosity, and recklessness as essential attributes for an actor. Streep joined the cast of Big Little Lies for season 2, playing the role of Mary Louise White, the mother-in-law of Kidman’s character Celeste.
Streep recalled accepting the role in Big Little Lies without even reading the script, as her agent informed her that there was a part written with her in mind. She shared that she agreed to take on the role without hesitation because she found the show to be one of the greatest things on TV, especially the first season. Streep played Mary Louise White, a character who becomes entangled in the complex web of relationships and secrets among the main characters of the show. Streep’s performance added a new dimension to the already star-studded cast, including Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Shailene Woodley, Zoë Kravitz, and Laura Dern.
During an event in New York City, Streep expressed her admiration for Kidman’s talent and work ethic, emphasizing her dedication to the craft of acting. Streep praised Kidman for her ability to fearlessly explore the depths of human emotions and experiences through her performances. She described Kidman as someone with a genuine love for acting and a willingness to take risks in order to portray complex characters authentically. Streep’s words reflected the respect and admiration she holds for Kidman as both a colleague and a friend in the entertainment industry.
Streep’s heartfelt tribute to Kidman at the American Film Institute Life Achievement Award Gala highlighted the bond between the two actresses and the respect they have for each other’s talent and dedication to their craft. Streep’s admiration for Kidman’s abilities as an actor and her prolific body of work underscored the impact Kidman has had on the entertainment industry. Through their collaboration on Big Little Lies, Streep and Kidman showcased their ability to bring complex characters to life and captivate audiences with their performances. The camaraderie and mutual admiration between Streep and Kidman serve as a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring influence of talented performers in the world of film and television.
