Romance Rumors Between Nicole Kidman and Simon Baker Stir Controversy
Speculation is mounting over whether the long-standing friendship between Australian actors Nicole Kidman and Simon Baker has evolved into something more intimate. The duo, who have been close for decades, are currently promoting their new Prime Video crime-thriller series, Scarpetta, alongside co-stars Jamie Lee Curtis, Bobby Cannavale, and Ariana DeBose.
Red Carpet Hand-Holding Sparks Fan Theories
During the New York premiere of Scarpetta earlier this month, observant fans noted Kidman and Baker holding hands on the red carpet. In the series, they portray a married couple, with Kidman as forensic pathologist Kay Scarpetta and Baker as her FBI profiler husband, Benton Wesley. This public display has fueled rumors of a romantic connection off-screen, adding to the intrigue surrounding their relationship.
Keith Urban's Reported Distress Over the Situation
Sources indicate that Kidman's ex-husband, country singer Keith Urban, is deeply troubled by these developments. An insider revealed to Woman's Day that seeing Kidman and Baker together felt like a betrayal to Urban, comparing it to witnessing a close friend with his former partner. Urban and Kidman's divorce was finalized earlier this year, following his move out of their Nashville home last summer.
The insider elaborated, stating that Urban is concerned about the impact on his relationship with their daughters, Sunday, 17, and Faith, 15. The girls have reportedly been supportive of their mother and share a strong bond with Baker, whom they view as a fun uncle figure since childhood. Urban fears that a romance between Kidman and Baker could further strain his already fragile connection with his daughters.
History of Close Ties and On-Screen Collaborations
Kidman and Baker's friendship dates back years, intertwined with their families. Baker was married to Rebecca Rigg for 29 years until their split in 2020, with Kidman serving as godmother to their youngest child, Harry. Kidman has described her closeness with Rigg, noting they are like the same person, and she actively pursued Baker to co-star in Scarpetta due to their deep history.
This is not their first on-screen pairing as a couple; they previously starred together in the 2022 series Roar. Baker mentioned that sharing an on-screen kiss with Kidman felt strange initially, but Kidman dismissed any awkwardness, citing their long-standing familiarity through hugs and shared experiences.
Promotional Efforts or Genuine Connection?
While some speculate that the hand-holding and affectionate interviews are merely tactics to promote Scarpetta, Urban reportedly remains unsettled. The insider suggested that even if it is for publicity, Urban views it as a betrayal, given the emotional toll it takes on him. He had previously suspected a growing closeness between Kidman and Baker during filming, making the current rumors a realization of his worst fears.
As the story unfolds, fans and media continue to watch closely, debating whether this is a fleeting Hollywood rumor or a significant shift in the personal lives of these high-profile celebrities.
