Judi Dench’s Wild On-Set Antics: Pranks, Punches, and Garlic Breath
Judi Dench’s reputation goes far beyond her legendary acting skills—her playful, sometimes outrageous behavior with co-stars has become the stuff of backstage legend. Discover the hilarious and unexpected moments that have made her both beloved and feared among her peers.
Don’t be fooled by Judi Dench’s petite frame—she’s a powerhouse both on and off the stage. While she’s celebrated for her remarkable performances, Dench is equally notorious for her mischievous streak and her love of stirring up trouble among her fellow actors. Over the years, she’s built a reputation as one of the industry’s most unpredictable pranksters, leaving a trail of unforgettable stories in her wake.
Legendary Mischief and Unforgettable Pranks
Many wouldn’t expect Dench to be the source of so much chaos, but her co-stars know better. Lesley Manville, for instance, once found herself the target of Dench’s antics during a live performance. Dench managed to break Manville’s composure on stage by pretending to be “pleasured from behind,” causing Manville to lose control and nearly wish Dench would be locked away for good. These kinds of pranks are just part of Dench’s charm, and her colleagues have learned to stay on their toes whenever she’s around.
Her sense of humor isn’t limited to the stage. Dench once mistakenly propositioned a complete stranger, asking if they were interested in a fling, proving that her playful spirit knows no bounds. Whether it’s a joke gone awry or a perfectly timed prank, Dench’s antics have become legendary in the entertainment world.
When Jokes Turn Physical
Sometimes, Dench’s playful side takes a more physical turn. Michael Pennington, a longtime friend and frequent collaborator since the 1970s, learned this the hard way. The two have shared the stage in productions like The Way of the World, The Gift of the Gorgon, and Filumena. Despite their close friendship, Pennington found himself on the receiving end of Dench’s wrath after making a questionable choice before a love scene.
Pennington had eaten a hefty amount of garlic, leaving Dench with no choice but to take action.
“Once, he ate a lot of garlic before a love scene,” Dench explained. “I think I punched him for that.”
Even among friends, Dench doesn’t hesitate to set boundaries—especially when it comes to onstage intimacy and strong odors.
Friendship, Fun, and a Little Mayhem
Dench and Pennington’s relationship has always been rooted in fun and a bit of misbehavior.
“When we have argued, I don’t think it’s ever been serious,”
she once shared. Their playful rivalry even extended to a time when Pennington dealt with a mouse problem at home. Dench, opposed to using traps, sent him anonymous letters calling him a “Mouse Murderer!”—a prank that was tame by her standards.
Reflecting on their years together, Dench admitted,
“It’s mostly been about having fun and being badly behaved, though he’s not as uncontrolled as I can get.”
Her willingness to push boundaries and keep her colleagues guessing has made her both a beloved friend and a formidable presence on any set. If anyone tries to outdo Dench in the mischief department, they’d better be ready for a little bruising—both to their egos and, occasionally, their jaws.