Judith Olivia Dench, known as Judi Dench, is an acclaimed British actress whose career began in the theatre, where she became one of the most celebrated Shakespearean performers of her generation with the Royal Shakespeare Company. International film recognition came later in life, particularly with her role as Queen Victoria in *Mrs. Brown* (1997), which earned her her first Academy Award nomination. She consolidated her fame by playing M in the James Bond series, starting with *GoldenEye* (1995). In 1999, she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I in *Shakespeare in Love*. Her filmography includes acclaimed performances in *Chocolat*, *Iris*, *Notes on a Scandal*, and *Philomena*, which have earned her numerous other nominations. Recognized with countless awards, including a record number of Olivier Awards for theatre and several BAFTAs, she was appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1988 for her services to the dramatic arts.