From Juliet to Cleopatra, Judi Dench revisits her Shakespearean legacy in new book

Judi Dench has tackled nearly every female role in William Shakespeare's plays, from Juliet to Cleopatra, in her illustrious seven-decade career. Together with Brendan O'Hea, a friend and fellow actor, Dench explores her connection with Shakespeare in their collaborative book, "Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays the Rent."

The title is a nod to how Dench and her late husband humorously referred to Shakespeare.

During the pandemic, while secluded at her home outside London, Dench received a call from O'Hea that set the stage for their book. O'Hea, an actor and director, proposed they discuss Dench's extensive history with Shakespearean roles.