Tea with Judi Dench returning to Sky Arts

This time, she'll welcome Sir Ian McKellen to her home.

Sky Arts has confirmed that following its success last year, Tea with Judi Dench will return this summer as Judi welcomes one of Britain’s most celebrated performers, Sir Ian McKellen, to her home for a celebration of extraordinary conversations, storytelling and friendship.

Dame Judi Dench will be joined by her great friend Sir Ian McKellen for tea and a warm, candid conversation about their extraordinary lives both on stage and off.

From Shakespeare, stage fright and the insecurities of acting to the worldwide fame of The Lord of the Rings and James Bond movies, they reflect on success, failure and the importance of never taking either too seriously.

Along the way, Ian speaks movingly about coming out, his defining role in the fight against Section 28, and one of his greatest regrets: never sharing the truth about himself with his parents.

The first episode of Tea with Judi Dench featured Sir Kenneth Branagh, as the two swapped star-studded stories from their careers at her Surrey home, captivating audiences with its warmth, wit and insight.

Ahead of the show's return, Dame Judi Dench said "I am absolutely delighted to be returning for a second film, and even more pleased to be sharing the experience with the wonderful Sir Ian McKellen. The response to the first film was deeply touching, and it's a great privilege to continue these conversations and capture moments of great friendship."

To which Phil Edgar-Jones OBE, Executive Director of Unscripted Originals at Sky, added "Tea with Dame Judi is fast becoming one of our most treasured and delightful treats on Sky Arts. If you join Judi Dench as she reflects on life, art, culture, and all manner of topics with the peerless Sir Ian McKellen, you’re sure to be amused, moved and enlightened in equal measure."

Made by Mindhouse, Tea with Judi Dench is directed by Laurence Turnbull, and executive produced by Nancy Strang with Suzy Burnet as production executive.

Speaking about Tea with Judi Dench, Mindhouse co-founder and creative director Nancy Strang said "I’m completely thrilled that Sky have commissioned us to make another Tea with Judi Dench. Judi has a unique combination of warmth, intelligence and mischievousness which appeals to audiences across generations."

"To be invited in to spend a day with her and the incomparable Ian McKellen at her home, sharing their memories of their lives, careers and lost loves is a complete privilege. I’m sure we’ll make another magical slice of television together."

Tea with Judi Dench will air this August on Sky Arts