When Nicole Kidman, 58, and Keith Urban, 57, confirmed their split on Monday, September 29, 2025, the news hit the entertainment world like a sudden gust of wind on a calm night.
The announcement came from their Nashville, Tennessee home – the city where they’ve been raising their two teenage daughters, Sunday Rose, 17, and Faith Margaret, 14. Sources close to the pair say the couple has been living apart since early summer, with Urban moving into a newly purchased property just a few miles from the family residence.
Background: From G'Day USA Gala to Australian Wedding
The story began at the G'Day USA Gala in Los Angeles in January 2005, where the Australian actress and the country‑music star first locked eyes. Their chemistry sparked a whirlwind romance that led to an engagement announcement in May 2006. The wedding took place on June 25, 2006, in a private ceremony at Kidman’s Sydney mansion, a Sydney wedding that was deliberately low‑key despite their celebrity status.
Early on, the couple faced a major test when Urban entered a rehabilitation program for substance‑abuse issues. Kidman stayed by his side, a move that many insiders say solidified their bond and set the tone for the next two decades of mutual support.
Timeline of the Relationship
- January 2005 – First meeting at the G'Day USA Gala (Los Angeles).
- May 2006 – Engagement announced via joint press release.
- June 25, 2006 – Private wedding at Kidman’s Sydney estate.
- 2008 – Birth of daughter Sunday Rose.
- 2010 – Birth of daughter Faith Margaret.
- June 2025 – 19th wedding anniversary celebrated with a black‑and‑white photo shared on Instagram.
- Summer 2025 – Urban moves out of the family home; sources say the split was “inevitable.”
- September 29, 2025 – Public confirmation of separation.
Details of the Separation
According to People magazine, the decision was driven by “differences that accumulated” over the past year. While Kidman reportedly tried to patch things up, Urban decided to formalize the split, purchasing a nearby house to maintain proximity for the girls’ schooling.
Page Six quoted a close friend who said, “Nicole didn’t want this to happen. She was actively trying to save the marriage, but Keith felt he needed space.” The narrative echoed what TMZ first reported: the couple had been living separately for months, a fact that, according to insiders, “wasn't a secret within their inner circle.”
Legal experts note that no divorce filing has been lodged yet; the duo appears to be taking a cautious approach, likely to shield their children from publicity. The daughters remain in Kidman’s custody at the Nashville family home, while Urban continues touring, with a concert slated for October 2, 2025, in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Reactions from Friends, Fans, and Industry Peers
Social‑media reactions were swift. On Instagram, Kidman posted a muted black‑and‑white snapshot from their 2025 anniversary, captioned simply, “Thankful for the journey.” Fans responded with a mix of support and sorrow, flooding the comment section with messages like, “Wishing you both peace.”
Industry colleagues were equally candid. Country‑music star Carrie Underwood told BBC, “Keith’s a wonderful husband and father; I’m hoping they navigate this with dignity.” Meanwhile, actress Cate Blanchett, a longtime friend of Kidman, said in a private interview, “Nicole is incredibly strong. She’ll handle this like she’s handled every role – with grace and determination.”
Impact on Careers and Ongoing Projects
Kidman has just wrapped filming on the long‑awaited sequel to Practical Magic, a project that kept her occupied through the summer. Sources close to the set say she threw herself into work as a coping mechanism, a tactic she’s used before during personal upheavals.
Urban, on the other hand, remains on tour. His next show in Hershey will be the first major public appearance since the separation was announced. Critics note that his setlist includes a new song, “Home,” which some fans speculate references his current life changes.
What’s Next for the Family?
Both parties have indicated a desire to keep the children’s lives as normal as possible. Kidman’s sister, Antonia, has reportedly moved into the Nashville home to help with the girls’ routine. Urban’s management says the singer will continue his tour and then focus on studio work, possibly collaborating with Australian artists he’s long admired.
The couple has not ruled out counseling, and a source close to the family hinted that they might pursue joint custody arrangements that allow each parent ample time with the daughters. In the entertainment world, where divorces often become tabloid fodder, Kidman and Urban appear intent on handling things “discreetly and responsibly,” according to insiders.
Key Facts
- Separation announced: September 29, 2025.
- Marriage length: 19 years (June 25 2006 – September 2025).
- Children: Sunday Rose (17) and Faith Margaret (14).
- Residence: Nashville, Tennessee (both parties own property).
- Next public appearance: Urban’s concert on October 2 2025 in Hershey, PA.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will the separation affect Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret?
The girls will remain in their mother’s primary residence in Nashville while their father maintains a nearby home for weekend visits. Antonia Kidman, Nicole’s sister, has moved in to provide additional support, and both parents have pledged to keep school and social activities uninterrupted.
Is a divorce filing expected soon?
Neither Kidman nor Urban has filed for divorce yet. Sources say they are taking time to sort out custody, financial matters, and personal wellbeing before making any legal moves.
Will Keith Urban’s upcoming tour be impacted?
Urban’s manager confirmed the tour will proceed as scheduled. The October 2 show in Hershey, Pennsylvania, will be his first major performance since the split, and he’s said he’ll keep the focus on his music.
What projects is Nicole Kidman working on next?
Kidman just finished filming the sequel to Practical Magic and is expected to begin a limited‑run theater production later this year. She also hinted at a possible return to television with a limited‑series drama.
How have fans reacted to the news?
Reactions have been a blend of shock and support. Social‑media comments praise both for handling the situation privately, while many fans expressed sadness, noting the couple’s reputation as one of Hollywood’s most stable pairs.
Prakash Dwivedi
Life throws curveballs, even for Hollywood royalty.