Nicole Kidman has recently faced backlash after revealing her top comfort spots in Sydney, with one luxury choice sparking criticism for being “out of touch.” The 57-year-old Oscar-winning actress shared her top five Sydney locations with The New York Times, revealing places that provide her a sense of comfort and calm. While her list included widely accessible and beloved sites, it was her recommendation of a high-end spa that raised eyebrows.
Kidman’s chosen list featured local favourites like the Art Gallery of NSW, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Harry’s Café de Wheels, and Sydney’s Harbour pools. These locations are iconic and widely visited, offering affordable cultural and culinary experiences that resonate with many Australians. However, it was her final mention — the exclusive day spa Venustus, located in Paddington — that caused a stir on social media.
Venustus is promoted as a “global destination” in the world of body and wellness. The spa’s pricing, however, caught the public’s attention. Massages start at $300, and the flagship six-hand massage experience — with three therapists working on a client at once — is priced at a whopping $1000. Despite the cost, Kidman stood by her recommendation, describing the establishment as a place that truly “knows how to take care of people.”
For critics, this was a step too far. Some social media users accused Kidman of being “out of touch” with average Australians. Given her immense wealth — Forbes estimates she earned $42 million in 2024 — and her property in Sydney’s luxurious Milsons Point, many felt the lavish spa recommendation missed the mark. But others rushed to defend her, arguing that she had also listed several budget-friendly, everyday favourites, making her list balanced and heartfelt.
Kidman shares homes between the U.S. and Australia with husband and country music star Keith Urban. The couple’s international lifestyle and access to exclusive experiences are no secret, and fans argue it’s natural for her to enjoy and promote high-end experiences — particularly when she also includes places accessible to the public.
In defending her list, Kidman underscored the comfort and personal care she receives at Venustus. She emphasized that it’s not just about luxury but about the quality of care and relaxation. For many of her fans, this explanation made sense — reminding us that even celebrities seek genuine spaces of comfort, just like everyone else.
The backlash, however, speaks to a broader sentiment around celebrity influence and class divides, especially when luxury is presented as a common comfort. Nonetheless, the divide in opinions showcases how Australians still have a strong connection to authentic, local experiences, and also value candour from their celebrities.
As the debate continues online, Kidman’s choices have sparked a conversation about balance in lifestyle recommendations, especially from public figures. Her list — while controversial — offers an intriguing glimpse into how even A-listers find grounding in familiar places.
