Learn about the illustrious career of Dame Judi Dench, a beloved British actress known for her iconic roles in film, television, and stage performances.
Dame Judi Dench: A Legendary British Actress
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Dame Judi Dench is a beloved British actress and a true national treasure. With a career spanning over six decades, she has become one of the most celebrated actors of all time.
Judi Dench's talent, dedication, and remarkable performances have solidified her status as one of the greatest actors of her generation. Her contributions to the world of entertainment will continue to be cherished and celebrated for years to come.
Early Career and Recognition
Judi Dench made her debut in 1957 with the Old Vic Company, where she showcased her skills in Shakespearean plays such as Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, and Macbeth. In the 1980s and 1990s, she gained recognition for her work in TV series like As Time Goes By and films like A Room with a View.
However, it was her portrayal of M in the James Bond films, starting with GoldenEye in 1995, that brought her international fame. Judi Dench portrayed the iconic character in a total of eight Bond films.
Acclaimed Performances and Awards
One of Judi Dench's most notable achievements was winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Queen Elizabeth I in Shakespeare in Love in 1998. She has also received Oscar nominations for her performances in Mrs Brown, Chocolat, Iris, Mrs Henderson Presents, Notes on a Scandal, Philomena, and Belfast.
Throughout her career, Judi Dench has garnered numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a Tony Award, two Golden Globe Awards, four British Academy Television Awards, six British Academy Film Awards, and seven Olivier Awards.
Personal Life and Legacy
Born on December 9, 1934, in York, Judi Dench is now 89 years old as of 2023. Her parents were Eleanora Olive, an Irish mother from Dublin, and Reginald Arthur Dench, an English doctor who grew up in Dublin and served in World War I. She had two brothers, Peter and Jeffery, with the latter also becoming an actor.
In 1971, Judi Dench married Liverpool actor Michael Williams. They remained together until his passing in 2001 from lung cancer. Since 2010, she has been in a relationship with conservationist David Mills, whom she describes as wonderful.
Judi Dench has one daughter named Finty Williams, born in 1972. Like her mother, Finty pursued a career in acting and has appeared in TV series and British films. She has also lent her voice to various projects, including the animated children's series Angelina Ballerina.