Judi Dench Supports Harvey Weinstein and Kevin Spacey

Dame Judi Dench has recently made headlines with her remarks about Harvey Weinstein and Kevin Spacey in an interview with Radio Times. The veteran actress expressed her thoughts on forgiveness and exoneration regarding both men, shedding light on her personal experiences and relationships with them.

Judi Dench’s Perspective on Harvey Weinstein

Dench discussed her feelings toward Harvey Weinstein, who is serving time for rape and sexual assault. She revealed that she has forgiven him following his conviction. Dench stated, “I saw a bit of film of Harvey walking with two sticks, and you think, ‘Well…’” This comment reflects her complex emotions about someone she once worked closely with.

As a Quaker, Dench emphasized her faith’s focus on second chances. She noted, “I don’t know, to me it’s personal — forgiveness.” While acknowledging the victims’ experiences, she mentioned, “I had none of that experience — very fortunately for me…”

Comments on Kevin Spacey

Dench displayed a more straightforward stance regarding Kevin Spacey, declaring, “Kevin has been exonerated.” Spacey was acquitted of sexual assault charges in a U.K. trial in 2023, although he still faces additional civil lawsuits next year. Dench has maintained a friendship with Spacey since they collaborated in 2001.

• Spacey was acquitted in 2023.
• Dench and Spacey have maintained communication.

Dench’s Personal Health Struggles

In the same interview, Judi Dench openly addressed her health issues, specifically her battle with age-related macular degeneration. She shared that both of her eyes are severely affected, limiting her ability to read, drive, and watch television. Dench described this condition as “a crusher,” sharing concerns about her memory as well.

Memories and Celebrity Crushes

Besides serious topics, Dench reminisced about her years in film. She mentioned Johnny Depp, revealing he was her celebrity crush. During filming of Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides in 2011, she recounted a humorous incident where Depp bit an earring off her ear. “He jumped in, but he didn’t give me a kiss; he went for my ear and took my earring off with his teeth,” she humorously recalled.

Through her candid reflections, Judi Dench continues to delve into the complexities of forgiveness, friendship, and personal challenges, while navigating her career in the limelight.