Judi Dench Reflects on Royal Encounters in New Memoir
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Judi Dench, the celebrated actress known for her illustrious career and numerous accolades, is set to release her highly anticipated memoir, *Is It Too Late to Make a Run For It?*. In an exclusive extract provided to PEOPLE, Dench shares her reflections on both her remarkable experiences in the entertainment world and her encounters with members of the British royal family. The memoir, written in collaboration with Brendan O’Hea, is set to be published on 3 November by St. Martin’s Press.
In the memoir, Dench recalls the emotional journey of revisiting her past, particularly her childhood memories and the profound impact of her late husband, Michael Williams. At 91, Dench expresses both surprise and gratitude at how vividly she remembers her early years. “The most challenging part was having to revisit the time when my husband, Michael, died,” she confesses. “I still miss him. Even now, 25 years on, I imagine he’s going to walk in through the front door.”
Dench has been vocal about her views on the Netflix series *The Crown*, which she discussed in a letter to *The Times* last year. While she acknowledged the show’s artistry, Dench condemned its lack of a disclaimer when depicting real-life events and figures, particularly those who are still living. She emphasised the importance of distinguishing between fact and fiction in a series that heavily features the British monarchy, stating, “Without a disclaimer, the drama seemed to be presenting invented conversations as fact, blurring the lines between historical accuracy and crude sensationalism.”
One of the highlights of Dench’s memoir is her encounters with the royal family, specifically her first meeting with Prince Philip back in 1951 during the Festival of Britain. At that time, a young Dench found herself performing in the York Mystery Cycle. She recalls that Prince Philip approached her mother and inquired about her elaborate costume, leading to a humorous moment where the monarch unknowingly sparked a memory of a comical mishap involving a maybug that had disrupted her performance.
Over the years, Dench has had the fortune of meeting Queen Elizabeth II several times due to the honours she received during her career. Describing the Queen, Dench fondly notes her small stature and ability to make those around her feel at ease. In one memorable lunch at Buckingham Palace, she recounts the amusing scene where a pack of corgis made an unexpected entrance, followed shortly by the arrival of the Queen herself, who was clearly a beloved dog owner.
Dench’s admiration for the late monarch extends beyond personal interactions. She reminisces about the Queen’s participation in a skit alongside Daniel Craig for the London Olympics, highlighting the lighter side of royalty and Elizabeth’s sense of humour. “It really showed that the Queen had a sense of humour,” Dench stated, reflecting on the playful aspects of royal life.
Her encounters with Princess Margaret also carry fond memories. Dench recalls the time the princess invited her to supper at Kensington Palace, where the atmosphere was light-hearted and fun, cementing the idea that members of the royal family can be just as sociable and approachable as anyone else.
The memoir promises to combine heartfelt anecdotes with a candid exploration of Dench’s personal and professional life, showcasing the duality of her beloved career and the heartaches that accompany it. Dench’s perspective on both the glamour of Hollywood and the intricacies of royal encounters provides readers with an authentic glimpse into a life filled with remarkable experiences.
*Is It Too Late to Make a Run For It?* will be available for pre-order, offering fans an opportunity to delve deeper into the life of one of Britain’s most cherished actresses. Dench’s reflections are bound to resonate with many as she reveals the laughter, love, and loss that have shaped her journey over her nine decades. The memoir promises to be both poignant and entertaining, serving as a testament to Dench’s enduring legacy in the world of theatre and film.