Judi Dench joins other stars at Noel Coward charity gala after mourning the death of her friend Maggie Smith

Judi Dench joins other stars at Noel Coward charity gala after mourning the death of her friend Maggie Smith

As a theater enthusiast with over five decades of watching these legendary artists grace our stages and screens, I have been fortunate enough to witness the remarkable camaraderie between Judi Dench and Maggie Smith that transcended their extraordinary careers. Their friendship, forged backstage at the Old Vic Theatre in the 1950s, grew into an unbreakable bond filled with laughter and support, as evidenced by their numerous collaborations on stage and screen.


On Sunday, Judi Dench and Ian McKellen were among a group honoring the late playwright and composer Noel Coward at London’s Prince of Wales Theatre in the city of London.

At a charitable event named “A Marvellous Party,” the actress (who is 89 years old) was accompanied by broadcaster Gyles Brandreth and actor Derek Jacobi.

The gathering signifies the conclusion of the two-year tribute known as Coward 125, an occasion honoring the life and achievements of Coward, which culminates on the 125th anniversary of his birth.

The wonderful party showcases the performances of Hugh Bonneville, Alfred Enoch, Joshua James, Marisha Wallace, and Samantha Spiro.

After my dear friend Maggie Smith passed away in September, having reached the venerable age of 89, I found myself reflecting on our shared experiences and cherished memories.

Judi choked up on stage at the Cheltenham Literature Festival in October after she was asked about her late friends Maggie and Barbara Leigh-Hunt.

Judi Dench joins other stars at Noel Coward charity gala after mourning the death of her friend Maggie Smith

Judi Dench joins other stars at Noel Coward charity gala after mourning the death of her friend Maggie Smith
Judi Dench joins other stars at Noel Coward charity gala after mourning the death of her friend Maggie Smith

During her presentation at the literature festival, Judi, who had spoken candidly about her own experiences, became emotional when Brendan O’Hea mentioned her dearly departed friends who had passed away within the past month.

He inquired, “I realize it might be awkward to discuss, but given that the past week has been tough for you with the passing of both Maggie Smith and Barbara Leigh-Hunt, how are you holding up?

In our heartfelt conversation, I found myself pondering about the profound analogy she used regarding her late husband, Michael Williams. Specifically, I was curious to understand the depth of her comparison between grief and petrol, a sentiment she shared years ago.

‘I suppose the energy that’s created by grief…’ she said, before breaking down in tears.

Maggie’s passing incited a wave of sorrow from fellow actors and Harry Potter enthusiasts worldwide, with Huge Bonneville taking the lead in expressing tributes to a ‘legendary figure of her time’.

For over seven decades, a cherished actress, renowned for her performances in the Harry Potter films and boasting an illustrious 70-year acting career, had maintained a friendship with Dench that stretched back to the 1950s.

The close bond between them originated during their childhood acting years, having first encountered each other backstage at the Old Vic theater in London.

At a memorial gathering held in 2002, Smith shared: “The most vivid memory I have from that period was the start of a beautiful friendship, and above all else, I recall hearty laughter filling the world.

Judi Dench joins other stars at Noel Coward charity gala after mourning the death of her friend Maggie Smith
Judi Dench joins other stars at Noel Coward charity gala after mourning the death of her friend Maggie Smith

‘Judi’s the most tremendous friend. She’s been a huge support and hugely loyal.’ 

They have shared the stage and screen multiple times, such as in the 1985 film “A Room with a View,” the 2004 drama “Ladies in Lavender,” and the 2011 comedy “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.

In reference to the friendship between Judi and Maggie, screenwriter Ol Parker – known for writing The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel – commented: “Maggie and Judi frequently swam wearing their Victorian-era bathing suits. Each day brought more laughter as we all shared in it.

Additionally, Dench and Smith were featured in the 2018 Netflix film ‘Nothing Like a Dame’. This production captures discussions among the four actresses, including Dench, Smith, Eileen Atkins, and Joan Plowright. All four are Dames Commanders of the British Empire.

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2024-11-17 22:48

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