The world of Dame Judi Dench has been shaken to its core following the passing of her cherished friend, Dame Maggie Smith. According to a source close to the family, this loss has left the legendary actress reeling. It’s a story that’s unfolding exclusively for Closer, and it sheds light on how this devastating event has impacted the Oscar-winning star and her outlook on life.
Two Legends, One Lifelong Bond
The friendship between Judi Dench and Maggie Smith wasn’t just professional; it was deeply personal. An insider familiar with both stars shared, “Dame Judi Dench and Dame Maggie Smith first crossed paths early in their careers, forging a bond that grew stronger with time. Judi often looked up to Maggie as a role model, shaping her own career trajectory based on Maggie’s success and grace.”
A Friendship Forged on the Stage
Dame Judi Dench, now 90, was visibly moved when she spoke about Maggie at the Cheltenham Literature Festival. The Downton Abbey star passed away peacefully in a hospital on September 27, at the age of 89. Her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, confirmed the news, leaving a void not only in the entertainment world but also in the lives of those who loved her dearly.
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Their friendship began in the bustling world of the Old Vic theater in London during the 1950s. “It was a time of beginnings for both of them,” Maggie once reminisced in 2002. “What stands out most from those days is the laughter. Judi has always been an incredible friend, offering unwavering support and loyalty.”
A Legacy of Collaboration
Their professional journeys intertwined multiple times over the years. They starred together in the iconic 1985 film A Room with a View, which marked the beginning of a string of successful collaborations, including Tea with Mussolini in 1999, Ladies in Lavender in 2004, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in 2011, and its sequel in 2015. They even joined forces with other legendary actresses, such as Eileen Atkins and Joan Plowright, in the 2018 documentary Nothing Like a Dame, where they shared their experiences in British cinema.
Beyond the Screen: Shared Passions
Beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Maggie and Judi shared a love for swimming, a passion they maintained even into their 80s. “Every morning during their last movie together, Maggie and Judi would take a refreshing dip in their Victorian swimsuits,” recalled Ol Parker, the writer and director of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. This small detail highlights the camaraderie and joy they found in each other’s company.
A Turning Point in Judi's Life
The loss of Maggie Smith has deeply affected Judi Dench, prompting her to reflect on her own life and career. “Like Maggie, Judi has been working tirelessly, achieving some of her biggest successes in the past two decades,” the source reveals. “But now, with Maggie gone, Judi is facing the harsh realities of her ‘living to work’ philosophy. Could this be the moment for her to reconsider her busy schedule and prioritize her well-being?”
Judi’s most recent film appearance was in the 2022 Christmas comedy Spirited, and currently, there are no public plans for future projects. This could indicate that she’s ready to step back and embrace retirement. However, her journey isn’t without challenges. Recently, she disclosed that she’s dealing with macular degeneration, a condition affecting her eyesight. At the Chelsea Flower Show in London, when asked about her next project, she humorously quipped, “No, no. I can’t even see!”
As the entertainment world mourns the loss of Maggie Smith, Judi Dench remains a global treasure. Her close friends and fans alike are hopeful that this difficult time will lead her to make choices that bring her peace and joy in the years ahead.
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