Dame Judi Dench appears to wipe away a tear in the new trailer for her forthcoming factual programme, Tea with Judi Dench featuring Ian McKellen. In the teaser, the James Bond and Mrs. Brown star says: “Oh, I’d like to go back and do that all again.”
Emotional Reunion with Ian McKellen
Dench makes the comment while reminiscing with her longtime friend Sir Ian McKellen, as he recounts his battle with stage fright during a play they worked on together. The Lord of the Rings and X-Men actor also praises her immense support as he struggled with his anxiety while performing.
McKellen says: “I was in the depths of stage fright. What magic empathy you had.” Dench responds: “No, I was going to ask you about it.” He adds: “I had admired you from afar but we’d never met, I don’t think.”
Behind the Scenes at Dench's Home
The pair are seen laughing together as they share a brew in Dench’s Surrey home. Earlier, Dench introduces McKellen to her pet parrot Sweetheart, who gives the actor a whistle.
The hour-long programme will see the two friends and British stars discussing their lives and careers as they swap star-studded stories.
What to Expect from the Special
A synopsis from Sky reads: “Dame Judi Dench is joined by her great friend Sir Ian McKellen for tea and a warm, candid conversation about their extraordinary lives both on stage and off. From Shakespeare, stage fright and the insecurities of acting to the worldwide fame of the Lord of the Rings and James Bond movies, they reflect on success, failure and the importance of never taking either too seriously. Along the way Ian speaks movingly about coming out, his defining role in the fight against Section 28, and one of his greatest regrets; never sharing the truth about himself with his parents.”
The special marks a return of the show, after the inaugural edition last year when Dench spoke to fellow actor Sir Kenneth Branagh. Speaking about the new film, Dench says: “I am absolutely delighted to be returning for a second film, and even more pleased to be sharing the experience with the wonderful Sir Ian McKellen. The response to the first film was deeply touching, and it's a great privilege to continue these conversations and capture moments of great friendship.”
Tea with Judi Dench returns to Sky Arts and NOW on Monday, August 31.
