Sir Ian McKellen has revealed he was in “the depths of stage fright” until he received support from his co-star Dame Judi Dench.
The actors will speak about their lives and careers on a new episode of Tea With Judi Dench, with Sir Ian, 87, joining Dame Judi, 91, at her Surrey home.
The pair, who have been friends for decades, worked together on stage in The Promise in 1967, Too True To Be Good in 1975 and most famously in Macbeth in 1976.
In a preview clip of the episode, Sir Ian tells Dame Judi: “I was in the depths of stage fright. What magic empathy you had.”
He also reveals he was a fan of hers long before they became friends, saying: “I had admired you from afar, but we’d never met, I don’t think.”
Judi says: “Oh, I’d like to go back and do all that again.”
Elsewhere during the episode, Sir Ian speaks about coming out as gay and his fight against Section 28, a law introduced under Margaret Thatcher that “prohibited the promotion of homosexuality by local authorities”.
He will also speak about one of his greatest regrets: never sharing the truth about his sexuality with his parents.
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.”
Phil Edgar-Jones OBE, executive director of unscripted originals at Sky, said: “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.”
The first episode of Tea With Judi Dench was released in December and saw the actress chat with Sir Kenneth Branagh at her home.
Tea with Judi Dench will air on August 31 on Sky Arts, Freeview, and streaming service NOW.
