TV tonight: Judi Dench and Ian McKellen share stories, secrets and a little mischief

The Guardian Culture Monday 31 August 2026, 05:20 UTC By Priya Elan,Phil Harrison, Hollie Richardson, Jack Seale and Simon Wardell 1 min read

Key Points

The stage and screen legends reminisce over tea. Plus: Fred Sirieix checks into one of Marrakech’s grandest hotels. Here’s what to watch this evening9pm, Sky ArtsJudi and her potty-mouthed parrot Sweetheart invite Ian McKellen for a natter in the return of this charming show.

The stage and screen legends reminisce over tea. Plus: Fred Sirieix checks into one of Marrakech’s grandest hotels. Here’s what to watch this evening

9pm, Sky Arts
Judi and her potty-mouthed parrot Sweetheart invite Ian McKellen for a natter in the return of this charming show. Ian reminds her of when they first met, performing a play in 1967, and how Judi saved him from stage fright. Then it’s a warm, naughty hour as they share anecdotes about Ann Summers knickers, ponder the future (Judi’s eyesight is now very bad) and watch a clip of cinema flop Cats: “I was frightful in the film,” says Judi. Pure gold with two icons. Hollie Richardson

Judi Dench (PERSON) Ian McKellen (PERSON) Fred Sirieix (PERSON) Marrakech (LOCATION) Ian (PERSON) Judi (PERSON) Ann (PERSON) Hollie Richardson Continue (PERSON)

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