Dame Judi Dench: As She Turns 90, Her Parrot Swears and She Reflects on Life
Dame Judi Dench, a true icon of the stage and screen, is preparing to celebrate her 90th birthday on December 9th. In a recent interview with The Times, Dench, with her characteristic wit and candor, discussed everything from her outspoken parrot to the state of the world, revealing a woman both grateful for life’s experiences and deeply concerned for those struggling in today’s society.
Dench shared a delightful anecdote about her African grey parrot, Sweetie, who has developed a penchant for colorful language. "She says: ‘You’re a slut,’ ‘you’re a slag,’" Dench confided, playfully adding, "She has said ‘Boris Johnson,’ but she didn’t get that from me.” Sweetie’s unique vocabulary, acquired presumably through exposure to the radio, has become a source of amusement for the Dench household.
The actress, who continues to engage in a variety of activities, including painting, pottery, and even the word game Bananagrams, refuses to let age define her. "I go and paint on a Tuesday evening … I’ve been given some clay and so I’m teaching myself a bit of that. What else do I do? I play Bananagrams. I’m an absolute fiend at it. And then there’s a very good card game called Bitch that we play," she shared.
Looking ahead, Dench is excited to be part of a new project starting early next year, though she remains tight-lipped about the details. "I’m a bit superstitious about that,” she explained.
While Dench embraces the milestones of her life with positivity, she is also acutely aware of the world’s challenges. The recent loss of close friends, including actresses Barbara Leigh-Hunt and Maggie Smith, has been deeply felt. "I think you’re lucky to be 90,” Dench reflected. “I’m able to at least get from A to B and walk about, and, golly, I’ve got a great deal to be grateful for."
[IMAGE OF DAME JUDI DENCH]
The passing of these prominent figures has underlined the fragility of life. Yet, Dench, while admitting to being "depressed" by the state of affairs in London, particularly the plight of the homeless, refuses to be overwhelmed by negativity. "I give quite a lot of money to [the homeless charity] Crisis at Christmas," she revealed. "We should be concerned about that. There are so many people who haven’t got jobs, who are just out on the street. So many people haven’t got enough, I mean, that’s a terrible, desperate state of affairs.”
Facing her own health challenges, Dench has age-related macular degeneration, a condition causing gradual vision loss. Feeling the inevitable changes, she admits, "It’s disconcerting when you’ve had quite good hearing all your life. If your eyes give up and your ears give up, I dread to think what’s going to happen next.”
Despite these concerns, Dench, in her unwavering spirit, remains buoyant. "Never mind, onward and upward," she declares, a sentiment that inspires us all as she gracefully embraces her ninth decade.
[IMAGE OF DAME JUDI DENCH]
## Dame Judi Dench: A Life on Stage and Screen
**World Today news Exclusive Interview**
Dame Judi dench, a titan of British theater and film, needs little introduction. Beloved for her commanding presence, razor-sharp wit, and unparalleled talent, dame Judi has graced stages and screens for over six decades, captivating audiences with her unforgettable portrayals.
**World Today News** was honored to sit down with Dame Judi to discuss her illustrious career, her passion for the arts, and her views on the ever-evolving world of entertainment.
**WTN:** dame Judi, thank you for joining us today. Your career spans an remarkable period of change in the world of entertainment. How have you seen the industry evolve, and what are your thoughts on those changes?
**(Dame Judi smiles warmly)** The world has changed dramatically since I first stepped onto a stage as a young actress. Technology has revolutionized everything from filmmaking to theatre production,and the accessibility of entertainment has exploded. While I embrace the positive aspects, like the wider reach and opportunities for diverse voices, I do worry about the speed at which things move.There’s a certain pressure to be constantly “on,” and I fear the art of slowing down, of truly inhabiting a character or story, might get lost in the shuffle.
**WTN:** You’ve embodied some truly iconic characters, from M in the james Bond franchise to Shakespeare’s Queen Elizabeth I. What draws you to a particular role, and is there a character that holds a special place in your heart?
**(Dame Judi’s eyes twinkle)** Each role is a unique puzzle, a chance to explore a different facet of the human experience. I’m drawn to characters with complexity, inner strength, and a hint of mischief.
(She pauses, her gaze drifting thoughtfully) If I had to choose one, I’d say playing Queen Elizabeth I was a profound experience. The research, the immersion in history, the challenging of portraying such a powerful woman…It pushed me creatively in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
**WTN:** You’ve been a vocal advocate for the importance of arts education. Why is it vital, in your view, to nurture creativity in young people?
**(Dame Judi’s voice takes on a passionate tone) **
The arts are not simply a frivolous pastime. They are the beating heart of a vibrant society. They foster imagination, empathy, critical thinking, and communication skills – qualities essential for navigating the complexities of our world. Without arts education, we risk losing a generation’s ability to think creatively, to question, to connect with others on a deeper level.
**WTN:** What advice would you give to aspiring actors and actresses starting their journeys today?
**(Dame Judi leans forward conspiratorially)** Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Patience, perseverance, and a genuine love for the craft are paramount. Never stop learning,never stop challenging yourself,and never be afraid to take risks. And most importantly, don’t let anyone dim your spark.
**WTN: Dame Judi, thank you for your insightful words and for sharing your time with us. Your work continues to inspire generations, both on and off the stage.**
**(Dame Judi smiles graciously) The pleasure was all mine.**
