At the age of 67, Dame Judi Dench faced profound sorrow with the loss of her husband of 30 years, actor Michael Williams, to lung cancer. Dench, a renowned actress honored with a Damehood by Queen Elizabeth II, initially vowed not to marry again. However, fate had different plans, leading her to discover love once more later in life.
Dench and Williams first crossed paths in 1962 during theater productions’ opening nights. Their connection grew over time, and despite a nine-year courtship, they didn’t marry until later. Dench humorously recalled Williams proposing to her twice, the second time on a rainy London day. Throughout their marriage, they supported each other personally and professionally, with Williams encouraging Dench in her iconic roles like portraying Queen Victoria in “Mrs. Brown.”
Their world was shattered when Williams was diagnosed with lung cancer in 1999. Dench halted her Broadway commitments to care for him, but sadly, he passed away at 65, leaving Dench devastated. She openly shared her grief, describing Williams as a selfless man who brought laughter and joy into her life.
Despite the immense loss, Dench found companionship anew with conservationist David Mills. They met in 2010 while filming a documentary about trees, and their friendship blossomed into a deep connection fueled by shared humor and a love for wildlife. Dench affectionately referred to Mills as a “jolly nice friend” and revealed they’ve been together for nearly a decade. Though she’s content with their relationship, Dench emphasized her preference not to remarry, cherishing their bond without needing formal labels.
Beyond her love for Mills, Dench holds a profound affinity for nature. Her six-acre estate in Surrey features a secret woodland sanctuary where she finds solace among trees, which she considers her extended family. To honor loved ones lost, Dench plants a tree in their memory, a poignant tradition that keeps their spirits alive in a serene and meaningful way.
Dench’s passion for trees inspired her to create the documentary “Judi Dench: My Passion For Trees,” deepening her understanding of their significance and interconnectedness. This project transformed her perspective on forests, revealing the intricate life within them and fostering a deeper appreciation for nature’s wonders.
For Dench and Mills, their relationship exemplifies life’s unexpected joys. Despite maintaining separate homes, they prioritize laughter, shared interests, and mutual respect in their bond. Embracing life fully, they relish the happiness of being together, embracing every moment, regardless of age.
