NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban have finalized their divorce, ending their 19-year marriage as one of Hollywood's most notable power couples. A judge in Nashville issued an order on Tuesday concluding the marriage of the Academy Award-winning actress and the Grammy Award-winning country singer.
Judge Stephanie J. Williams confirmed in a court filing that the couple's settlements regarding asset division and child custody were adequate, allowing for the dissolution of their marriage. Williams noted that "irreconcilable differences between the parties render the continuation of the marriage impractical and impossible."
Both Kidman and Urban, both 58 years old, chose to waive their right to appear at the hearing. Following the divorce filing, messages sent to their representatives for further comment went unanswered.
Nicole Kidman initiated the divorce process in September, which took many by surprise. However, it appeared that the couple had been navigating their separation for some time, as all pertinent legal matters related to asset division and custody were settled and signed on the same day she filed.
Tennessee law mandates a 90-day waiting period for couples with minor children before a divorce becomes effective. Kidman and Urban share two teenage daughters. In their divorce filing, they cited "marital difficulties and irreconcilable differences" as the reasons for their split. The signed agreement outlines that Kidman will be the primary residential parent for their children, and both parents are expected to continue residing in Nashville, their home for many years.
The divorce settlement indicates that neither parent requires child or spousal support, promoting a roughly equal division of their joint assets. Kidman and Urban's relationship dates back to their meeting in Los Angeles in 2005, leading to their marriage in Sydney in 2006. Throughout their two-decade relationship, they became prominent red carpet fixtures, often appearing together at major events such as the Oscars and the Academy of Country Music Awards.
Despite having publicly acknowledged some challenges in their marriage, there were no significant outward signs that a divorce was imminent. This marriage marked the first for Urban and the second for Kidman, who was previously married to actor Tom Cruise from 1990 to 2001, with whom she has two older children.
The couple's amicable settlement reflects their commitment to co-parenting and managing their responsibilities towards their children effectively, aiming for a smooth transition following their separation.
