Kim Novak, the iconic actress best known for her role in Alfred Hitchcock's Vertigo, is set to make a rare public appearance later this year. The 92-year-old will be honoured with the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the 82nd Venice Film Festival, which runs from August 27 to September 6.
Novak, who retired from acting in 1992, confirmed she will attend the ceremony. In a statement, she said: 'I am deeply, deeply touched to receive the prestigious Golden Lion Award from such an enormously respected film festival. To be recognized for my body of work at this time in my life is a dream come true. I will treasure every moment I spend in Venice.'
This will mark Novak's first red carpet appearance since the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival, where she attended a screening of Vertigo. The Venice festival will also premiere a documentary titled Kim Novak's Vertigo by Alexandre Philippe.
Since leaving Hollywood, Novak has focused on her passions for poetry and visual arts. Her paintings were exhibited at The Butler Institute of American Art in Ohio in 2024 under the title 'KIM NOVAK: Unmasked Emotions'. She has previously spoken about how her imagination drives her art, saying: 'My greatest desire has always been to touch your emotions like you have mine…with all the colors of a rainbow.'
Novak has largely stayed out of the spotlight since a 2014 Oscars appearance sparked criticism over her appearance. She addressed the bullying in an open letter, admitting to having had fat injections and taking a relaxant pill that affected her behaviour. She urged others to 'stand up to bullies in a healthy way by speaking out, working out and acting out.'
