Speaking to the media after the South Bank Sky Arts Awards, where she received an outstanding achievement accolade, Dame Judi Dench confirmed she will be reprising the role of M - 007's boss at MI6 - in the 23rd
James Bond film due out November 9th, 2012. Her confirmation follows the official announcement of the film earlier this month.
Asked whether she was going to be back as M, Dame Judi responded "Yes" and kept tight lipped with a glint in her eye. Further pressed for details she said,
Nothing... my lips are sealed. I can't tell you anything at all!
Of course, I'm looking forward hugely to working with Daniel [Craig] again and with Sam [Mendes] who I've only ever worked with in the theatre. So that'll be all good fun to do! I'm so glad it's coming back, it's wonderful.
It will be the seventh time Dench has played the role of M. She debuted in 1995's
GoldenEye opposite new-comer Pierce Brosnan. Her character was quick to put Bond in his place and assert her authority, explaining to him that she would utilise the 00-section where required, despite not always condoning their methods.
The 23rd James Bond film will commence production in late 2011 for a worldwide release on November 9, 2012. Daniel Craig will be returning as the legendary British secret agent, with Sam Mendes directing a screenplay written by Neal Purvis, Robert Wade and John Logan.