Dame Judi Dench on Forgiveness for Harvey Weinstein

In a recent interview released on December 7, actress Judi Dench expressed her belief that it may be time to forgive Harvey Weinstein.

Dench reflected on her friendship with both Kevin Spacey and Weinstein, which has been complicated by allegations of sexual assault—most notably, Weinstein’s conviction. She had previously condemned Weinstein’s actions when they first came to light but mentioned that she personally hadn’t experienced any harm from him, suggesting there might be room for forgiveness.

“I think he’s done his job,” she shared during her conversation with Radio Times.

She mentioned maintaining contact with Spacey over the years, stating, “Kevin has been cleared of the charges. Kevin contacted me via email.”

Dench also recalled a scene from a movie where Weinstein appeared with two sticks, saying this led her to reflect. “I know Harvey and have worked with him; I’ve never had an experience like that, which was fortunate for me,” she added.

Dench suggested that Weinstein has already faced sufficient punishment, saying, “I don’t know, but for me, it’s personal—it’s about forgiveness. I just think…” Her thoughts trail off, leaving a slight ambiguity in her perspective.

A spokesperson for Weinstein responded to Dench’s comments, remarking, “I have always loved Judi Dench. She is an extraordinary person who played an important role in my career.” Weinstein noted he has spent over six and a half years in prison, expressing gratitude for Dench’s support.

The allegations against Weinstein triggered the widespread #MeToo movement. He was found guilty of a first-degree sexual offense in June 2025 during a retrial in New York and previously convicted of rape and sexual assault in California in 2022.