Nicole Kidman Has a Team of Researchers to Help Understand “Lioness” Scripts: Like ‘Doing a Thesis in the CIA’

**Nicole Kidman Shares Insights on Preparing for Tense Dialogue in Paramount+ Series *Lioness***

Nicole Kidman recently opened up about the rigorous preparation involved in her role as Kaitlyn Meade in Taylor Sheridan’s CIA thriller *Lioness*. Speaking at the *The Icons of Taylor Sheridan’s Universe* event in New York City, Kidman, who leads the cast alongside Zoe Saldaña, described the challenge of mastering the show’s intricate and technical dialogue.

At the event, Kidman, aged 58, highlighted the complexity of the script, which is laden with technical jargon relating to the CIA’s activities and strategies. The actress revealed that she employs a team of researchers to dive into the meaning of each term, ensuring she understands every aspect of her dialogue. “I have my own people that do my research on every single term that I’m using so that I know everything I’m talking about,” she explained.

Initially, the fact-checking process is conducted by Taylor Sheridan and his team, but Kidman takes it a step further by conducting her own in-depth research. It is crucial for her to deliver her lines confidently—something she referred to as needing to sound as if it were part of everyday conversation. “You have to understand everything, and it has to be trippingly off your tongue,” she stated, acknowledging the difficulty of the task.

Kidman articulated her enthusiasm for the project, likening the preparation process to “suddenly doing a thesis in the CIA.” She shared that the depth of the material makes every scene both intense and rewarding. During her preparation, she collaborates closely with her co-stars, including Michael Kelly and Morgan Freeman, to dissect the scripts. “What does that mean? Decipher it. Definition, definition, definition,” she said, demonstrating their collective commitment to fully grasping the dialogues.

The thrill of performing such challenging material is evident in Kidman’s approach to her character. She also hinted at the relevance of the upcoming season of *Lioness*, remarking, “Taylor is so—particularly with *Lioness*, and particularly season 3, which is going to come out—is so relevant. It’s like, wow, it’s so topical.” Her words suggested that the storylines delve into critical current events, requiring viewers to remain alert as the narrative unfolds.

Sheridan, at 55, has garnered recognition not just for his writing skills but also for his ability to coach actors effectively. Kidman praised his contributions as a director, stating that one brief conversation with him could provide invaluable insight on how to tackle a scene. “You can have one call with him, and he’ll give you four words at how to play the scene,” she mentioned, acknowledging his unique talent for guiding performances.

Zoe Saldaña, who shares the screen with Kidman, echoed similar sentiments about the strenuous nature of the dialogue. The actress, aged 47, shared that taking on the role had helped her address personal challenges, including dyslexia and anxiety. Saldaña described the script as “very dialogue-heavy” and noted that the rhythm and cadence of the lines require extensive practice.

“There’s a cadence to the way he wants the dialogues in the scenes to be said,” she explained, revealing that her preparation was extensive but supported by her family. “That required a lot more hours of preparation, which, with the support of my husband and my family, I was able to do,” she recalled, indicating the importance of a solid support system while facing demanding roles.

The first two seasons of *Lioness* are currently available for streaming on Paramount+, showcasing the ambitious narrative that has captivated audiences. As both Kidman and Saldaña dive deep into their roles, the complexity of the dialogue not only challenges them as performers but also offers viewers a gripping insight into the world of undercover CIA operations.

With the anticipation for season three rising, fans are eager to see how the intense themes and finely detailed dialogue will develop further in the next chapter of this thrilling series.