[Edition 71] The radical decision breaks the magazine’s run of 172 consecutive editions featuring Kidman on its cover, dating back to before the Australian actress’ marriage to Tom Cruise

Kidman’s brave role won an Oscar ? and her another ten years on the cover of every women’s magazine

[Edition 71] MELBOURNE, Thursday: Leading women’s magazine Cleo rocked the industry today by releasing its March edition without Nicole Kidman on the cover despite her recent Oscar victory.

The radical decision breaks the magazine’s run of 172 consecutive editions featuring Kidman on its cover, dating back to before the Australian actress’ marriage to Tom Cruise.

Cleo instead opted to feature Cate Blanchett on its cover, in what editor Sally Jamison described as a brave break with an Australian tradition.

“When you look at a magazine rack in an Australian newsagent, you could be forgiven for thinking that making it in Hollywood is the only thing that counts in this country, and that Nicole’s the only one who ever has,” she said. “It’s time we remembered there’s actually two or three Aussie actresses over there, even if the others aren’t as good looking and never married Tom Cruise.”

Cleo’s bold decision limits readers seeking to buy a magazine with Kidman on the cover to choosing from only Elle, Vogue, Belle, InStyle, New Idea, NW, Women’s Weekly, That’s Life!, TV Week, Woman’s Day, Cosmopolitan, B or Harper’s Bazaar.

Jamison is sticking to her guns and intends to continue to push the envelope. “Frankly, we may not even use Nicole for next month’s cover either,” she said. “We’re seriously considering putting Naomi Watts on there.” Jamison was, however, quick to reassure Cleo readers that the accompanying interview would focus largely on what it’s like being Nicole Kidman’s best friend.