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Judi Dench

Birth Place: York, ENGLAND

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BIO

Dame Judi Dench is considered one of Britain's best actors of all time. Since playing Ophelia in 'Hamlet' at The Old Vic Theatre over 60 years ago, Judi has garnered wide popular and critical admiration for a career marked by outstanding performances in both classical and contemporary roles. She has won numerous major awards - including an Academy Award,10 BAFTA Awards and a record eight Laurence Olivier Awards - for work on both stage and screen, and in recognition of her many achievements she received an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 1970, became a DBE (Dame of the British Empire) in 1988, and in 2005 was awarded a Companion of Honour. She has also received the Japan Arts Association's prestigious Praemium Imperiale Laureate Award for Film and Theatre. Judi is recognised globally for her legendary role as M in seven James Bond films, from 'Goldeneye' to 'Skyfall'. Her other film work includes 'Tea With Mussolini', directed by Franco Zeffirelli; 'A Room With a View' and 'A Handful of Dust', both of which brought her BAFTA Awards for Best Supporting Actress; 'Henry V' and 'Hamlet', both directed Kenneth Branagh; 'Philomena', directed by Stephen Frears; Jane Eyre, directed by Cary Fukunaga; 'My Week with Marilyn', directed by Simon Curtis; 'J. Edgar', directed by Clint Eastwood; the hugely successful India-set comedy 'The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel', and its sequel 'The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel', both directed by John Madden; Roald Dahl's 'Esio Trot', opposite Dustin Hoffman; and 'Shakespeare in Love', directed by John Madden. Judi can currently be seen on screen in Richard Eyre's, Allelujah!


Photos

STAGE CREDITS

Peter and Alice Peter and Alice
[West End]
Michael Grandage Company Production, 2013
Performer
Into the Woods
[Broadway]
Broadway Revival, 2002
Giant
Amy's View
[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1999
Esme Allen
A Little Night Music
[West End]
Royal National Theatre Production, 1995
Desiree Armfeldt
The Good Companions
[West End]
Original London Production, 1974
Miss Trant
Cabaret
[West End]
London Production, 1968
Sally Bowles
King Henry V
[Broadway]
1958
Katherine
Twelfth Night
[Broadway]
1958
Maria

Awards and Nominations


winner
Olivier Awards - 2016 - Best Actress in a Supporting Role

Judi DenchThe Winter's Tale

Olivier Awards - 2014 - Best Actress

Judi DenchPeter And Alice

Olivier Awards - 2005 - Best Performance in a Supporting Role

Judi DenchAll's Well That Ends Wel


winner
Evening Standard Awards - 2004 - Lebedev Special Award

Dame Judi Dench


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1999 - Outstanding Actress - Play

Judi DenchLindsay Duncan

Olivier Awards - 1999 - Best Actress

Judi DenchFilumena

Outer Critics Circle Awards - 1999 - Outstanding Actress in a Play

Judi Dench , Amy's View


winner
Tony Awards - 1999 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play

Judi Dench, Amy's View

Olivier Awards - 1998 - Best Actress

Judi DenchAmy's View


winner
Olivier Awards - 1996 - Best Actress in a Musical

Judi Dench, A Little Night Music

Olivier Awards - 1993 - Best Actress

Judi DenchThe Gift Of The Gorgon, RSC

Olivier Awards - 1992 - Best Director of a Musical

Judi DenchThe Boys From Syracuse


winner
Olivier Awards - 1987 - Actress of the Year

Judi DenchAntony And Cleopatra


winner
Olivier Awards - 1983 - Actress of the Year in a New Play

Judi DenchPack Of Lies

Olivier Awards - 1982 - Actress of the Year in a New Play

Judi Dench, Other Places

Olivier Awards - 1982 - Actress of the Year in a Revival

Judi DenchThe Importance Of Being Earnest


winner
Olivier Awards - 1980 - Actress of the Year in a Revival

Judi Dench, Juno And The Paycock, RSC


winner
Olivier Awards - 1977 - Actress of the Year in a Revival

Judi DenchMacbeth

Videos

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News


Full Cast and Creative Team Set For MY MASTER BUILDER Starring Ewan McGregor and More Photo
Full Cast and Creative Team Set For MY MASTER BUILDER Starring Ewan McGregor and More
by Stephi Wild - Jan 31, 2025

Elizabeth Debicki, Kate Fleetwood, David Ajala, and Mirren Mack join Ewan McGregor to complete the cast of My Master Builder - a new play by American playwright and screenwriter Lila Raicek.
Video: Watch Ramin Karimloo Perform 'Only With You' From NINE Photo
Video: Watch Ramin Karimloo Perform 'Only With You' From NINE
by Michael Major - Jan 30, 2025

Ramin Karimloo has released a video of himself singing 'Only You' from Nine the Musical. The video also features Melissa James, Victoria Hamilton-Barritt, and Zizi Strallen. 
Eddie Izzard to Bring Shakespeare's HAMLET to A.C.T.'s Strand Theater Photo
Eddie Izzard to Bring Shakespeare's HAMLET to A.C.T.'s Strand Theater
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Jan 22, 2025

Following a New York run, a box office record-breaking two-week run at the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, and a six-week London run—Tony Award-nominated Eddie Izzard will bring her acclaimed solo performance of Hamlet to San Francisco! Learn more.
Review: MACBETH, In Cinemas Photo
Review: MACBETH, In Cinemas
by Cheryl Markosky - Jan 22, 2025

David Tennant and Cush Jumbo lead a first-rate cast in a raw, visceral, brutal and ultimately hopeful show filmed live at the Donmar Warehouse in London.
Review: CINDERELLA, King's Head Theatre Photo
Review: CINDERELLA, King's Head Theatre
by Kat Mokrynski - Dec 13, 2024

Written and directed by British Panto Award winner Andrew Pollard, Cinderella is given a “North London upgrade” in the King’s Head theatre’s first-ever pantomime. Maddy Erzan-Essien stars as the titular heroine, a girl who longs to find her place in the world and is forced to serve her evil stepsisters under the watchful eye of their mother
Ruthie Henshall, Amber Davies, and More Join NINE Concert Led By Ramin Karimloo Photo
Ruthie Henshall, Amber Davies, and More Join NINE Concert Led By Ramin Karimloo
by Stephi Wild - Dec 11, 2024

Further casting has been announced for Hope Mill Theatre’s new concert version of Nine the Musical, starring Broadway and West End star Ramin Karimloo, at Lowry, Salford next year.
Orange Tree Fundraiser Will Be Hosted By Gyles Brandreth For Primary Shakespeare Proj Photo
Orange Tree Fundraiser Will Be Hosted By Gyles Brandreth For Primary Shakespeare Project
by Stephi Wild - Dec 6, 2024

With Tom Littler's production of Twelfth Night currently in performances, Orange Tree Theatre has announced a special Shakespearean Under the Orange Tree fundraiser celebrating Twelfth Night.
Vinegar Strokes, Danielle Steers, and More Will Make Guest Appearances in Adults-Onl Photo
Vinegar Strokes, Danielle Steers, and More Will Make Guest Appearances in Adults-Only Panto CINDERELLA
by Stephi Wild - Nov 14, 2024

Special guest stars of stage and screen have been announced to appear on and off stage in the adults-only performances of Cinderella at the King's Head.
Robert Petkoff to Join MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL on Broadway Photo
Robert Petkoff to Join MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL on Broadway
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 12, 2024

Moulin Rouge! The Musical will welcome Broadway veteran Robert Petkoff in the role of 'Harold Zidler' beginning this month. Learn more about the production and see how to purchase tickets.
MGCfutures Celebrates 10th Anniversary Photo
MGCfutures Celebrates 10th Anniversary
by Stephi Wild - Nov 12, 2024

Michael Grandage’s charity MGCfutures celebrated their 10th anniversary last Thursday 7 November at St. Martin-in-the-Fields in Trafalgar Square. Learn more about the organization here!
MGCfutures Bursary Programme Opens Applications For 2024 Photo
MGCfutures Bursary Programme Opens Applications For 2024
by Stephi Wild - Nov 8, 2024

Artistic Director of MGC, Michael Grandage has announced that the eighth MGCfutures Bursary Programme will open for applications on 8 November at 12pm and closes on 5 December at 12pm.
King's Head Theatre Reveals Winter Lineup Photo
King's Head Theatre Reveals Winter Lineup
by Blair Ingenthron - Nov 2, 2024

Sofi Berenger, Acting CEO, and the whole team at the King's Head Theatre, have shared their upcoming shows this Christmas and into January. From pantomime, drag, and cabaret to female-led drama, there is something for everyone this winter. 
Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly to Star in Theater Drama THE PLAYERS Photo
Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly to Star in Theater Drama THE PLAYERS
by Josh Sharpe - Oct 31, 2024

Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly are reuniting! Following their turns as Laurel and Hardy in 2018's Stan & Ollie, the pair will star in a new comedy about the infamous rivalry between stage actors Edwin Forrest (Reilly) and William Macready (Coogan).
Ian McKellen, Marisha Wallace, and More Join A MARVELLOUS PART Celebration of Noël C Photo
Ian McKellen, Marisha Wallace, and More Join A MARVELLOUS PART Celebration of Noël Coward
by Stephi Wild - Oct 30, 2024

Alfred Enoch, Derek Jacobi, Ian McKellen, Joshua James, Samantha Spiro, Marisha Wallace and Lia Williams will join the charity gala performance, A Marvellous Party, at London's Prince of Wales Theatre on Sunday 17 November 2024.
King's Head Theatre Announces Full Casting For First Ever Family Pantomime CINDERELLA Photo
King's Head Theatre Announces Full Casting For First Ever Family Pantomime CINDERELLA
by A.A. Cristi - Oct 24, 2024

KING'S HEAD THEATRE has announced the full cast for its first family pantomime, featuring the voice of Judi Dench and starring Ella Vaday. The show runs from November 30 to January 5.
The Fortune Theatre Reveals Celebration Plans for 100th Birthday Photo
The Fortune Theatre Reveals Celebration Plans for 100th Birthday
by Stephi Wild - Oct 17, 2024

The Fortune Theatre has announced plans to celebrate its centenary year. On the afternoon of Friday 8th November, the theatre will open its doors to the public for a free event to mark its birthday, displaying an impressive archive of its theatrical memorabilia from performances throughout the years, with drinks, canapés and speeches from the theatre’s General Manager, Robbie Powell, and ATG Entertainment’s London Business Director, Andrew Rawlinson.   
Lorna Dallas To Debut New Show SNAPSHOTS At Chelsea Table + Stage Photo
Lorna Dallas To Debut New Show SNAPSHOTS At Chelsea Table + Stage
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 8, 2024

Lorna Dallas will present her new show, SNAPSHOTS, at Chelsea Table + Stage this fall. The performance will feature a selection of songs and stories from her career. Learn more about the performance and see how to purchase tickets.
Ramin Karimloo Will Lead NINE THE MUSICAL in Concert at The Lowry Photo
Ramin Karimloo Will Lead NINE THE MUSICAL in Concert at The Lowry
by Stephi Wild - Oct 1, 2024

Hope Mill Theatre will present a new concert version of Nine the Musical, starring Broadway and West End star Ramin Karimloo, at The Lowry, Salford next year.
Judi Dench, Giles Terera and More Join A MARVELLOUS PARTY, a Celebration of Noel Cowa Photo
Judi Dench, Giles Terera and More Join A MARVELLOUS PARTY, a Celebration of Noel Coward's Life & Work
by Stephi Wild - Sep 25, 2024

Stars will gather in a charity gala performance at London's Prince of Wales Theatre on Sunday 17 November 2024, to celebrate the enduring legacy of the internationally acclaimed playwright, composer, director, actor and singer, Sir Noël Coward.
Storyhouse Will Host Elders Festival This Month Photo
Storyhouse Will Host Elders Festival This Month
by Stephi Wild - Sep 12, 2024

Storyhouse is set to host a FREE festival this autumn, celebrating Chester’s older residents. Storyhouse Elders will take place at the Hunter Street venue from 14-18 October, with a programme created by and for Chester’s older community members.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many Broadway shows has Judi Dench been in?

Judi Dench has appeared on Broadway in 4 shows.

How many West End shows has Judi Dench been in?

Judi Dench has appeared on London's West End in 4 shows.

What was Judi Dench's first West End show?

Judi Dench's first West End show was Cabaret which opened in 1968

What awards has Judi Dench been nominated for?

Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Olivier Awards) for The Winter's Tale, Best Actress (Olivier Awards) for Peter And Alice, Best Performance in a Supporting Role (Olivier Awards) for All's Well That Ends Wel, Lebedev Special Award (Evening Standard Awards), Outstanding Actress - Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Lindsay Duncan, Best Actress (Olivier Awards) for Filumena , Outstanding Actress in a Play (Outer Critics Circle Awards) for Amy's View, Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for Amy's View, Best Actress (Olivier Awards) for Amy's View, Best Actress in a Musical (Olivier Awards) for A Little Night Music, Best Actress (Olivier Awards) for The Gift Of The Gorgon, RSC, Best Director of a Musical (Olivier Awards) for The Boys From Syracuse , Actress of the Year (Olivier Awards) for Antony And Cleopatra, Actress of the Year in a New Play (Olivier Awards) for Pack Of Lies, Actress of the Year in a New Play (Olivier Awards) for Other Places, Actress of the Year in a Revival (Olivier Awards) for The Importance Of Being Earnest, Actress of the Year in a Revival (Olivier Awards) for Juno And The Paycock, RSC and Actress of the Year in a Revival (Olivier Awards) for Macbeth.

What awards has Judi Dench won?

Judi Dench has received several prestigious awards throughout her career, including: - Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Olivier Awards) for The Winter's Tale - Lebedev Special Award (Evening Standard Awards) - Outstanding Actress - Play (Drama Desk Awards) for Lindsay Duncan - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play (Tony Awards) for Amy's View - Best Actress in a Musical (Olivier Awards) for A Little Night Music - Actress of the Year (Olivier Awards) for Antony and Cleopatra - Actress of the Year in a New Play (Olivier Awards) for Pack of Lies - Actress of the Year in a Revival (Olivier Awards) for Juno and the Paycock - Actress of the Year in a Revival (Olivier Awards) for Macbeth.

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