Red Carpet Interviews

Nicole Kidman and Zoe Saldaña's sweet friendship shines alongside their couture looks at Lioness premiere


The Oscar winners turned heads in Fendi Couture and Balmain, then shared with HOLA! why their bond extends far beyond the screen.


Nicole Kidman and Zoe Saldaña© Dia Dipasupil
JULY 31, 2026 2:26 PM EDT

Nicole Kidman and Zoe Saldaña turned the Lioness Season 3 premiere into a masterclass in modern eveningwear as they arrived at New York City’s SVA Theater on Wednesday, July 29.

Joined by castmates Laysla De Oliveira, Jill Wagner, and the rest of the ensemble, the Oscar winners delivered two of the night’s standout fashion moments while proving that timeless elegance can take very different forms.

(L-R) Laysla De Oliveira, Nicole Kidman, Zoe Saldaña and Jill Wagner at the "Lioness" Season 3 New York Premiere © Jamie McCarthy
(L-R) Laysla De Oliveira, Nicole Kidman, Zoe Saldaña and Jill Wagner at the "Lioness" Season 3 New York Premiere

Nicole Kidman and Zoe Saldaña share their admiration for each other

The celebration was not only about style. HOLA! caught up with both actresses on the red carpet, where they opened up about the close friendship they have built after years of working together on the hit series.

Saldaña did not hold back when describing what Kidman means to her. “She is one of a kind,” Zoe told HOLA!. “She is an incredible mother, an amazing professional, a daughter, a sister, and a wonderful friend. I learn so much from her. She is so genuine. She is a Gemini, she is left-handed. I know so much about Nicole Kidman now.”

Nicole Kidman and Zoe Saldana shared their admiration for each other © Kevin Mazur
Nicole Kidman and Zoe Saldana shared their admiration for each other

She added with a tender laugh, “I’m texting with her, and I secretly hope someone asks who I’m talking to so I can casually say, ‘Nicole.’ I still cannot believe I get to call her one of my closest friends. I love her so much, and I have so much respect for her.”

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Kidman returned Zoe's admiration just as enthusiastically. “I would do anything for her,” she told HOLA!. “She is an extraordinary mother, wife, sister, and friend.” When told that Saldaña had praised her professionalism, Kidman smiled and replied, “That’s so nice. We have worked together for so long now that we really know each other. We love each other, and we’re able to support each other.”

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Their heartfelt exchange revealed a genuine friendship that extends well beyond the cameras.

Nicole Kidman’s Fendi Couture look was all about understated glamour

Kidman once again proved why she remains one of Hollywood’s most reliable red carpet dressers.

For the premiere, Kidman turned to longtime stylist Jason Bolden, who dressed her in an elegant yet effortless Fendi Couture look. A shimmering champagne beaded tunic layered over ivory wide-leg trousers gave the outfit a soft, fluid feel, blending Old Hollywood glamour with a modern, minimalist edge.

Nicole Kidman stuns at the "Lioness" Season 3 New York Premiere © Dia Dipasupil
Nicole Kidman stuns at the "Lioness" Season 3 New York Premiere

The intricate beadwork draped in delicate, jewelry-like layers, catching the light without overwhelming the look. She completed the ensemble with a serpent-inspired bracelet-ring and gold jewelry by Roberto Coin.

Nicole’s beauty look was equally polished. She wore her long blonde hair in a soft blowout with face-framing curtain bangs parted down the middle.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 29: Nicole Kidman attends Paramount+'s "Lioness" Season 3 New York Premiere at SVA Theater on July 29, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)© Jamie McCarthy
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 29: Nicole Kidman attends Paramount+'s "Lioness" Season 3 New York Premiere at SVA Theater on July 29, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)

Zoe Saldaña’s Balmain gown brought sculptural drama

Saldaña took a different approach, embracing bold sophistication in a striking black evening gown. The Latina Powerhouse wore a sculptural Balmain Fall 2026 velvet dress which featured a plunging V-neckline and structured shoulders. 

Zoe Saldaña classy in black at the "Lioness" Season 3 New York Premiere© Jamie McCarthy
Zoe Saldaña classy in black at the "Lioness" Season 3 New York Premiere

To finish the look, she paired it with classic black tights for a sleek finish. As for accessories, she opted for a simple necklace providing the only jewelry on display. Her look with natural makeup and softly tousled hair.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 29: Zoe Saldaña attends Paramount+'s "Lioness" Season 3 New York Premiere at SVA Theater on July 29, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)© Jamie McCarthy
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 29: Zoe Saldaña attends Paramount+'s "Lioness" Season 3 New York Premiere at SVA Theater on July 29, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)

Two different styles, one unforgettable red carpet moment

In an era when many celebrity red carpet appearances are designed to generate instant buzz, both actresses showed the lasting appeal of impeccable tailoring and thoughtful styling. Neither look depended on dramatic statements or shock value. Instead, they highlighted the power of confidence, craftsmanship, and personal style.

(L-R) David Glasser, Jane Wiseman, Laysla De Oliveira, Nicole Kidman, Zoe Saldaña, Jill Wagner, Dana Goldberg, Cindy Holland and Michael Friedman at the "Lioness" Season 3 New York Premiere © Dia Dipasupil
(L-R) David Glasser, Jane Wiseman, Laysla De Oliveira, Nicole Kidman, Zoe Saldaña, Jill Wagner, Dana Goldberg, Cindy Holland and Michael Friedman at the "Lioness" Season 3 New York Premiere

The real standout moment, however, extended beyond fashion. Alongside Kidman’s quietly luminous sophistication and Saldaña’s commanding modern edge, the affection they expressed for one another made it clear why their partnership continues to resonate on- and off-screen. Their friendship proved to be just as memorable as their couture looks at the Lioness Season 3 premiere.