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Nicole Kidman Trains as Death Doula After Mother's Passing

4/15/2026

24 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Nicole Kidman, 58, announced at a University of San Francisco talk that she is training to become a death doula.
Her decision follows the September 2024 death of her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, who she says felt lonely in her final days.
She said, "I wish there were these people in the world to sit impartially and provide solace and care."
Chloé Zhao and other celebrities are exploring similar paths.

History

Historical Context

The death doula movement gained momentum in 2015, building on earlier initiatives like New York's 2000 program that paired volunteers with terminally ill patients. Organizations such as the International End of Life Doula Association have since trained thousands, with over 1,000 certified doulas in the U.S. This shift reflects a growing societal emphasis on compassionate, personalized end-of-life care, challenging traditional medical practices.

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Story summary

Nicole Kidman, 58, announced at a University of San Francisco talk that she is training to become a death doula.
Her decision follows the September 2024 death of her mother, Janelle Ann Kidman, who she says felt lonely in her final days.
She said, "I wish there were these people in the world to sit impartially and provide solace and care."
Chloé Zhao and other celebrities are exploring similar paths.

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