Sky is returning for more Tea with Judi Dench this summer with a one-hour special produced by Mindhouse, as Dench welcomes Sir Ian McKellen to her home.
Dame Judi Dench is joined by her great friend for tea and a 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 first episode of Tea with Judi Dench featured Sir Kenneth Branagh, as the two swapped stories from their careers at her Surrey home.
Tea with Judi Dench is produced by Mindhouse for Sky Arts. Executive producer is Nancy Strang, directed by Laurence Turnbull and production executive is Suzy Burnet. The special is commissioned by Phil Edgar-Jones, Executive Director, Unscripted Originals at Sky for Cécile Frot-Coutaz, Chief Advertising and Content Officer, Sky, CEO Sky Studios. Leanne Cosby is Commissioning Editor for Sky.
Phil Edgar-Jones OBE, Executive Director of Unscripted Originals at Sky, said: “Tea with Dame Judi is fast becoming one of our most treasured and delightful treats on Sky Arts. If you join Judi Dench as she reflects on life, art, culture, and all manner of topics with the peerless Sir Ian McKellen, you’re sure to be amused, moved and enlightened in equal measure.”
Dame Judi Dench said, “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.”
Nancy Strang, Mindhouse co-founder and creative director added, “I’m completely thrilled that Sky have commissioned us to make another Tea with Judi Dench. Judi has a unique combination of warmth, intelligence and mischievousness which appeals to audiences across generations. To be invited in to spend a day with her and the incomparable Ian McKellen at her home, sharing their memories of their lives, careers and lost loves is a complete privilege.”
Tea with Judi Dench will air in August on Sky Arts, Freeview and streaming service NOW
Pippa Considine
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