Kidman's marriage career boost

Australian actress Nicole Kidman is extremely grateful for her second marriage to country singer Keith Urban as it has proved to be a big influence on her career.

Kidman, 40, has revealed that her confidence has improved as a result of her happy relationship with Urban, which in turn has "absolutely" had an impact on her acting.

The Golden Compass star was previously married to Tom Cruise, with whom she has two adopted children. Speaking to the Times of India, she also discussed how the emotional journey she has been on with her second husband has helped to strengthen their relationship.

She said: "Marriage has made me feel protected again. More so now than I ever felt before.

"I guess it's also because I'm older and wiser and I'm at a place where I've met the person I am most attuned to, more than anyone I've ever been with, and that's beautiful. I think there is something to be said for getting married when you are in your late 30s.

"You are in a far different place and we are much more willing to be 'us' and we can contribute on a deeper level and not be as much on a roller coaster because we know ourselves better."

Kidman and Urban, who has battled with alcohol addiction, are due to welcome their first child together later this year.

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