Nicole Kidman and Salma Hayek shared an awkward moment at the Balenciaga show during Paris Fashion Week on September 30 that has since gone viral. The brief exchange occurred while the two actresses posed for photos alongside singer Katy Perry. A TikTok video captured Hayek attempting to turn Kidman toward the cameras by gently touching her shoulder, prompting Kidman to grab Hayek’s hand and push it away.
After the brief physical exchange, Kidman leaned in to kiss Perry and then exchanged a few words with Hayek before walking away. While it remains unclear what was said during the interaction, the clip has sparked widespread speculation. As Kidman walked off, Hayek was overheard saying, “Yes please. Advice.” In response, Kidman—presumably—replied, “You don’t need it,” to which Hayek answered, “I do”, told the Daily Mail.
Fans quickly reacted to the viral video, with many focusing on the “don’t touch me” gesture from Kidman. One user commented, “Oh that ‘don’t touch me’ from Nicole to Salma at a brand show owned by her husband, that Balenciaga contract is in danger I fear,” referring to the fact that Hayek’s husband, François-Henri Pinault, is the CEO of the company that owns Balenciaga. Another fan expressed confusion, asking, “Am I deaf or does anybody else not hear the ‘don’t touch me’?”
Despite the brief moment of tension, Hayek continued to pose for additional photos with Perry, who appeared to be more enthusiastic about the photo session. Both actresses stunned in their outfits: Kidman wore a sleek black turtleneck dress, paired with sheer tights, stilettos, and sunglasses, while Hayek opted for a black dress featuring a plunging neckline.
The Paris Fashion Week event marked Kidman’s first public appearance since the passing of her mother, Janelle Anne Kidman, in early September. Just hours before accepting the Best Actress award at the Venice Film Festival for her role in Babygirl, Kidman shared the sad news of her mother’s death. She later posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, writing, “My sister and I along with our family want to thank you for the outpouring of love and kindness we have felt this week. Every message we have received from those who loved and admired our Mother has meant more to us than we will ever be able to express.”
Despite the viral “don’t touch me” moment, both Kidman and Hayek seemed to carry on with grace at the star-studded fashion event.