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Dames of Classic Drama at the BBC

From the BBC archives, before their talents were recognised by royal decree, the early work and career defining moments of Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Diana Rigg and Helen Mirren.

Today, they are at the centre of British cultural life and among our greatest exports - the acting dames, an exclusive club of stage and screen greats who were honoured for their services to drama. But, lurking in the BBC archives - from long before their talents were recognised by royal decree - we find the early work and some career defining moments of Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Diana Rigg and Helen Mirren. David Tennant narrates the story of our dames of classic drama, from a golden age of British television drama.

59 minutes

Last on

Sun 29 Dec 202401:45

Music Played

  • Dire Straits

    Sultans Of Swing

  • Pink Floyd

    Breathe (In The Air)

Credits

RoleContributor
NarratorDavid Tennant
Series ProducerWilliam Naylor
ProducerRachel Jardine

Broadcasts