Nicole Kidman has opened up about the role she believes a mother should play in her children’s lives, and one particular comment quickly sparked conversation online. During a recent interview in Sydney, the Oscar-winning actress explained that she does not see herself as simply a friend to her daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret. Instead, she believes a mother should be a guide, mentor, safe haven, and dependable source of strength. Kidman said she often reminds her children that her role is to be their “rock,” rather than their best friend. The actress also spoke warmly about returning to Australia, calling it home, and described the close relationship she shares with her daughters. While some social media users interpreted her comments critically, Kidman has consistently described motherhood as a relationship built on love, honesty, boundaries, and support.

Interestingly, her daughter Sunday Rose has publicly offered a much warmer perspective on the relationship. Sunday has described her mother as her “biggest inspiration” and said Kidman is a key part of everything she does. She has also credited her mother with teaching her important lessons about keeping promises, staying grounded, being punctual, and following through instead of simply talking about goals. As Sunday begins building her own career in fashion and exploring an interest in filmmaking, those lessons appear to remain important to her. Kidman has also spoken about the unique challenges of raising teenagers in the public eye, particularly in an era dominated by social media. For fans watching the family from afar, the contrast between online criticism and Sunday’s own words offers a reminder that a mother’s role is not always about being a child’s closest friend—it can also mean providing steady guidance when it matters most.