Judi Dench Texts Kevin Spacey, Defends Harvey Weinstein as ‘Having Served Time’

Judi Dench recently shared her thoughts on Kevin Spacey and Harvey Weinstein in an interview with The Radio Times. These two individuals have had significant roles in Dench’s career, despite their controversies.

Kevin Spacey: A Complicated Relationship

Dench, who starred with Kevin Spacey in the 2001 film “The Shipping News,” reminisced about their connection. Following the death of her husband, Michael Williams, Spacey offered her comfort during a difficult time in her life.

In the interview, Dench noted that she and Spacey maintain communication, stating, “We text.” This revelation comes after Spacey was acquitted of sexual assault charges in the UK in 2023. He was also found not liable in a civil case in New York in 2022. However, Spacey faces additional sexual assault claims in London civil court next year.

Harvey Weinstein: Reflecting on the Past

Dench’s relationship with Harvey Weinstein also shaped her career. His production company, Miramax, was pivotal in acquiring the rights to her first lead role in the 1997 drama “Mrs. Brown.”

Despite Weinstein’s conviction for rape and his ongoing prison sentence, Dench expressed a complex viewpoint. She stated, “I saw a bit of film of Harvey walking with two sticks… I knew Harvey well and worked with him, and I had none of that experience — very fortunately for me.”

The Question of Forgiveness

While acknowledging her empathy for Weinstein’s victims, Dench emphasized the personal nature of forgiveness. “I imagine he’s done his time… to me it’s personal,” she explained.

Separating Art from Offenses

Dench previously discussed the importance of differentiating an artist’s work from their alleged misdeeds. In a 2019 interview, she questioned whether we should disregard the contributions of artists like Spacey and Weinstein. “Are we just not going to see all those films that Harvey produced?” she asked rhetorically.

• Kevin Spacey: Starred with Dench in “The Shipping News.”
• Harvey Weinstein: Involved in Dench’s career through “Mrs. Brown.”
• Current Status: Spacey acquitted in criminal cases; Weinstein serving prison time.

Dench’s insights illuminate the challenges of reconciling personal connections with the larger cultural discourse surrounding forgiveness and accountability in the entertainment industry.