Dame Judi Dench was deeply emotional when asked about the recent passing of her close friend, Dame Maggie Smith, at the Cheltenham Literature Festival. The conversation took a somber turn as fellow actor Brendan O’Hea brought up the recent losses of Maggie Smith and Barbara Leigh-Hunt, another close friend of Dame Judi’s.
Barbara Leigh-Hunt, who had acted alongside Dame Judi in the BBC sitcom As Time Goes By, passed away in September at the age of 88. When asked about her previous comparison of grief to petrol, Dame Judi struggled to hold back tears, highlighting the profound impact of losing loved ones.
Dame Maggie Smith and Dame Judi had been friends since the 1950s when they met at the Old Vic theatre in London. Their friendship spanned decades, with collaborations on stage and screen, including the 2018 documentary Nothing Like a Dame. Dame Maggie, known for her versatile acting career from Shakespeare to the Harry Potter franchise, was remembered as ‘one of the true greats’ by her colleagues and fans.
It has been 20 years since Dame Judi and Dame Maggie starred together in Ladies in Lavender, a period drama about two sisters who rescue a Polish castaway. Despite her illustrious career, Dame Judi has faced challenges with age-related macular degeneration, a condition affecting her eyesight. In a candid interview with Louis Theroux, she expressed her determination to continue acting despite her vision struggles.
Dame Judi, now 89, recently appeared in the 2022 movie Spirited, showcasing her resilience and passion for her craft. Her ability to memorize lines despite her vision impairment is a testament to her dedication and talent. As she navigates the challenges of aging, Dame Judi’s strength and unwavering commitment to her art inspire fans and fellow actors alike.
The loss of Dame Maggie Smith has undoubtedly left a void in Dame Judi’s life, reminding us of the fleeting nature of time and the importance of cherished friendships. In moments of grief and reflection, Dame Judi’s emotional response serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring bond between two legendary actors. Their legacy lives on through their work and the memories they created together, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
