For 30 years, Judi Dench was married to fellow actor Michael Williams. He was her husband, her biggest supporter and her closest friend. When he died in 2001, she was heartbroken and believed that love would never find her again.
Their love story had always been full of humor. When Michael first proposed during a tour in sunny Australia, Judi turned him down with a joke, saying she could not take a proposal seriously in such perfect weather.
Years later, when Michael became seriously ill, Judi was working in New York. She flew straight home to Surrey to be with him. After a two year battle with lung cancer, he passed away at the age of 65.
After that, Judi thought the romantic part of her life was over. But at 76, life surprised her. She met David Mills, a wildlife conservationist who is eight years younger than her.
They first met at the British Wildlife Centre. A few months later, David invited her back to open a new red squirrel enclosure, and that visit turned into a real connection.
They found plenty in common. Judi loves nature, which matched David’s passion for wildlife, and he came to enjoy her love of film and theater. They went to the cinema together, met friends and slowly got to know each other’s worlds.
At first, David found her famous life a little overwhelming. But over time he adapted, while still staying true to his quiet life in the countryside. Judi has often spoken warmly about her chap, as she likes to call him.
Their story is a lovely reminder that it is never too late for a second chance. After a great loss, Judi Dench found happiness again, built on respect, shared interests and plenty of laughter.
