Dame Judi & Jay: An Unlikely Friendship Takes Centre Stage
Dame Judi Dench, a national treasure and acclaimed actress, and Jay Blades, a furniture restorer with a remarkable story, have formed an unlikely yet heartwarming friendship. Their journey is documented in a new Channel 4 travelogue, "Dame Judi and Jay: The Odd Couple," which follows the pair as they explore places that hold special meaning for each of them.
The programme begins with Blades taking Dench to Ridley Road market in Dalston, a bustling hub for the local Black community. This was a familiar haunt for Blades in his youth, where he would accompany his mother to collect gossip and bargain for goods. Dench, a self-proclaimed shopaholic, is captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and the array of offerings, much to Blades' amusement.
While the genuine interaction between the two is undeniably captivating, the programme occasionally delves into staged activities, such as their attempt to run a market stall selling plantain. This feels somewhat jarring, interrupting the natural flow of their camaraderie. Similarly, a pub quiz, a nod to Dench's early days in Stratford-upon-Avon, feels somewhat forced.
However, the programme truly shines when it allows Dench and Blades to share their personal experiences. Dench returns to the Old Vic, the theatre where she made her London debut at the age of 22. Standing on the stage after over 60 years, emotion washes over her as she recounts her early years as an actress. Blades, who admits he never encountered Shakespeare during his schooling, is utterly enthralled by her performance.
In a touching moment, Blades recites Shakespeare's famous "To be, or not to be" speech. This carries extra significance considering Blades' journey to literacy, having learned to read at the age of 51. Dench's gentle guidance as he navigates the complexities of the language creates a profound, almost intimate moment between the two.
The programme also explores Blades' formative years, highlighting the influential figures who helped him turn his life around. Janet, a woman who founded a youth club to provide support for at-risk young people, is credited with saving Blades from a life of crime and violence. He expresses his gratitude with heartfelt sincerity, a moment that touches Dench deeply.
Later, the programme takes Dench to the home she shared with her late husband, Michael Williams, and their daughter. Visiting Williams' grave, she reads Blades the inscription, "You have bereft me of all words," which beautifully encapsulates the profound sense of loss she carries. The two stand in silence, sharing a moment of shared grief and understanding.
"Dame Judi and Jay: The Odd Couple" is a unique and heartwarming exploration of friendship across generational and cultural divides. While some of the staged activities feel unnecessary, the programme truly shines when it allows Dench and Blades to share their personal experiences, offering a glimpse into the extraordinary lives of two remarkable individuals.
