Judi Dench and David Mills: Partner or Chap?

Judi Dench, the beloved 89-year-old actress, has been happily partnered with David Mills, 79, since 2010. Interestingly, she shared her thoughts about why they likely won’t ever tie the knot, stating that they are ‘far better off’ living separately. She believes they both enjoy their independence too much!

The two met when David invited Judi, a winner of numerous awards, to open a red squirrel enclosure at the British Wildlife Centre in Newchapel. This came after Judi had turned down a previous invitation related to a badger enclosure, as she felt she wasn’t “in good enough shape” at the time.

Judi was previously married to Michael Williams for 30 years, and they had a daughter together named Tara Cressida Frances, affectionately known as ‘Finty’. Tragically, Michael passed away in 2001 from cancer. Judi has said she would “never get over” him and mentioned that her relationship with David is a comforting friendship.

She talked about how meeting David was unexpected, describing their connection as something that grew gradually and maturely, primarily through their shared love of animals, which she finds wonderful.

Despite being together for over a decade, the couple doesn’t plan on getting married. David acknowledged they’ve discussed it but believe they’re better off as they are, living in separate houses that are just four miles apart.

Judi humorously insisted that David wouldn’t propose, saying, “Let’s just pull ourselves together and be our age!” Interestingly, she prefers to call David her “chap” instead of using terms like partner or boyfriend, which she finds unappealing.

In 2021, Judi and David made appearances together, where David mentioned that while it was initially daunting to be in the spotlight alongside Judi, he has found it quite fine and enjoys meeting fellow stars.