The conclusion of Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban’s nineteen-year marriage was finalized on January 6, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee, leading to fresh controversy fueled by rumors about Kidman’s personal relationships. These Nicole Kidman divorce rumors have stirred significant frustration, particularly as reports emerged linking Kidman to a prominent business executive shortly after their divorce was legally confirmed.
The country music star Keith Urban is reportedly furious about the rapid spread of these dating rumors, which involve Paul Salem, chairman of MGM Resorts International. The allegations suggest that Urban is distressed not only by the speed at which the speculation arose but also by Salem’s notable financial standing and influence.
Legal Details and Custody Arrangements Following Divorce
Nicole Kidman, 58, and Keith Urban, also 58, officially ended their marriage through a court order in Nashville, as confirmed by court filings reported by LiveNOW from FOX. Their divorce concluded a 19-year union and includes joint parenting responsibilities for their two daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret.
Both Kidman and Urban initiated divorce proceedings in September 2025, citing irreconcilable differences. Reports indicate the separation agreement was reached amicably, with both parties waiving rights to child and spousal support, despite substantial individual incomes exceeding $100,000 per month. Kidman was granted primary custody, with physical custody of the children for 306 days per year, while Urban was awarded custody for 59 days, predominantly on alternating weekends.
In public remarks made in 2023, Urban emphasized the importance of family unity, telling Fox News Digital, “it’s always family first” in his household, underscoring his commitment to co-parenting despite the divorce.
Rumors Linking Nicole Kidman to MGM Executive Paul Salem
Following the divorce finalization, Paul Salem, the chairman of MGM Resorts International’s board since 2020, has become central to speculation regarding Kidman’s romantic life. According to RadarOnline, Salem has expressed interest in dating Kidman within his social circles.
Though sources acknowledge that Kidman and Salem have met twice at group events, they confirm no private meetings or romantic involvement between the two. Furthermore, insiders emphasize that Kidman is not actively pursuing a new relationship at this time, focusing instead on her family and professional duties.
One quoted source revealed:
“Keith is raging at the idea of Nicole being linked to anyone so quickly, and the fact he is an older, distinguished multi-millionaire is only fueling that anger and jealousy at the prospect of them getting together.”
This source added,
“Even though the divorce was amicable on paper, it’s still raw for him. Seeing her name connected to a powerful, wealthy executive has hit a nerve.”
Another insider commented on Urban’s reaction to the timing of the rumors, stating,
“Keith knew the day when Nicole decided to move on would come, but he didn’t expect speculation about her love life to begin so soon after their divorce was finalised.”
They also noted,
“He feels protective of his family and doesn’t like the circus that comes with these kinds of romance rumours.”
Background on Paul Salem and Nicole Kidman’s Current Focus
Paul Salem joined MGM Resorts International as chairman of the board in 2020 and holds several notable positions, including senior managing director emeritus at Providence Equity Partners. His educational credentials span an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BA from Brown University. Salem is also a part-owner of the Worcester Red Sox baseball team, with his net worth estimated between $25 million and $58 million depending on shareholdings.
Sources indicate that Kidman is concentrating on her family and career engagements, notably the upcoming sequel to Practical Magic alongside Sandra Bullock. Despite the circumstances, Kidman has maintained a low profile, refraining from public comments on the divorce or emerging dating rumors.
During the recent New Year holiday, Kidman was in Australia with her children, seeking time away from the media frenzy before returning to Nashville. The delicate balance between moving forward personally and managing intense public scrutiny appears to be a challenge for her at this time, and for now, she seems inclined to handle this transition privately.
