Nicole Kidman is clearing up one of the most enduring pop culture myths surrounding her. For over two decades, a set of now-iconic 2001 photos of Nicole have circulated, showing her joyfully celebrating in the street. Fans and memes alike have insisted the snaps were taken just after finalizing her divorce from fellow Hollywood heavyweight Tom Cruise, but Nicole says that’s not the case.
The images, often used to symbolize newfound freedom, became a cultural touchpoint. One popular meme, as noted by Know Your Meme, reads: “Live every day like you’re 2001 Nicole Kidman leaving her lawyer’s office after divorcing Tom Cruise.” For many, the jubilant vibe of those photos became synonymous with her stepping into a new chapter of life.
But Nicole is setting the record straight. Speaking to British GQ, she explained, “That was not me; that was from a film, that wasn’t real life. I know that image!”
When pressed about the widely believed backstory connecting the photos to her divorce, Nicole didn’t hesitate to dispel the rumor entirely. “That’s not true,” she said.
She went on to reflect on the complexities of public perception versus reality: “There’s always something behind the actual images that go out there, right?”
Despite her clarification, the legend of the photos has taken on a life of its own. Over the years, they’ve become emblematic of moving on from challenges with grace, strength, and maybe a touch of sass. While they don’t depict her post-divorce celebration as widely believed, they’ve still struck a chord with fans who admire Nicole’s resilience.
So, while the Internet might have to reframe its favorite Nicole Kidman meme, one thing remains clear: whether it’s in a movie, a viral photo, or real life, Nicole knows how to leave an impression.
