Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It? cover art

Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It?

The long-awaited memoir from the beloved, award-winning British actress and icon

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Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It?

By: Judi Dench
Narrated by: Brendan O’Hea, Judi Dench, Barbara Flynn
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In her new book, Dame Judi Dench tells us of her life on the stage, on the screen, and, above all, behind the scenes...

You might think you know Judi Dench. In a seven-decade career, she's been a spymaster, an Oscar-winning queen and has starred in musicals, blockbusters, tragedies and comedies. But what makes her tick? How did she become so successful and for so long? And why did her mother occasionally feel obliged to spray her with a garden hose?

Spend time in her company as Judi gradually starts to reveal herself, in collaboration with her friend and writing partner, Brendan O'Hea. With her actor's gift for storytelling, she takes us back to her upbringing in York: the parents who shaped her, the brother who encouraged her to act and the teachers who inspired her.

She tells of pranks, onstage and off, dissects her greatest screen roles and shares tales of her joyful marriage to actor Michael Williams, as well as her passion for nature and animals. From being locked out of the Oscars to almost coming a cropper to a pack of crocodiles in Borneo, Judi's life has been nothing if not adventurous. Just don't ask her to cook you a meal.

Funny, intimate, surprising, moving and over ninety years in the making, this is the story of Britain's most beloved actor.

Plus, enjoy a special bonus conversation between Judi Dench and Brendan O’Hea, exclusive to the audiobook.

© Judi Dench 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026

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Critic reviews

You must read this book. Honestly, you'll be crying with laughter. It's brilliant
Hijinks and humour
Like any good Shakespearean she can slip easily between tragedy and comedy
One of Britain's greatest living actors tells her life story with charm and wit , detailing her journey from school nativity snubs to West End triumphs and Hollywood blockbusters
Dench reveals the highs and lows of her brilliant career, including being fired from James Bond, a sex scene involving cream with Jeremy Irons, supper with Princess Margaret and being locked out of the Oscars. Just don't call her a national treasure - or mention retirement
Her memories are pin-sharp, relayed through a prism of amused self-deprecation and passion for her job
I think what comes across is the commitment to laughter and the commitment to joy. I've greatly enjoyed it!
If the book is a delight to read , it is because she is a delight. The reader comes away with a better grasp on how to approach life, and prepare for it's hurdles. For aspiring actors, meanwhile, the information contained within is priceless. We could all do with being a little bit more Judi
Warm, witty and wonderfully candid, actor Dame Judi Dench's memoir is a glorious behind-the- scenes romp through an extraordinary life. From schoolgirl disappointments to Hollywood glamour, she shares hilarious mishaps , showbiz secrets, touching memories and plenty of self-deprecating humour. There's something wonderfully reassuring about hearing a national treasure admit to nerves and self-doubt too. A hugely enjoyable read for fans of theatre, film and great storytelling
All stars
Most relevant
This was so delightful. It was like listening to a conversation between friends. Her comments and insights about costume designers has enhanced my enjoyment of Cranford which I have recently watched. Then there is of course her sense of humour.

Friendship

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I’m thoroughly enjoying listening to this book on Auidable. It’s fun and gentle and very informative,also highly entertaining,

Judi Dench Is it too late to make a run for it

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I was under the impression it was read/narrated by Dame Judy Dench, unfortunately it isnt. Barbara has a similar accent, but not the same nuance of character.
otherwise its an engaging listen

unfortunate narrative

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I adore Judi Dench but the format of this audiobook doesn’t work for me
The story is fascinating but I grew irritated by the interview style of the book on audio. I kept with it though as the life stories of the author was worth the effort.

Yes I know JD would have difficulty reading her story herself due to her eye condition, I don’t know how they can get round that, I can only give my opinion
I must say it’s probably one of the only times I would say the physical reading of a book would be better than the audible version.


The format isn’t for me

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