Dame Judi Dench filmed a brilliant response to coronavirus outbreak

By Mariana Cerqueira 2020-03-18T14:00:00Z

Judi Dench has filmed a brilliant response after the coronavirus outbreak.

As the world grows increasingly concerned about the spread of coronavirus, celebrities everywhere are trying to provide light relief in a bid to inform but also entertain people during these uncertain times.

Judi Dench decided to join in alongside fellow actor Gyles Brandreth, and filmed a Cats-inspired video of herself washing her hands for the recommended time of 20 seconds.

In the video shared on Twitter, the pair recite The Owl and the Pussy-Cat by Edward Lear while they make sure their hands are thoroughly clean.

As Gyles says “What a beautiful pussy you are”, Dame Judi begins purring and nuzzling up to the writer – just like her character in the film, Old Deuteronomy.

He adds, “Wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds and you too will get the purr of satisfaction. A purr and good health too.”

That’s one way to make sure we’re all washing our hands!

Dame Judi was due to return to the stage this week for a series of conversations in London alongside Gyles.

However, the show has now been postponed as the Bridge Theatre decided to close its door due to the coronavirus outbreak, until July.

He wrote on Twitter, ‘Yes, we’ve got to pack up & go home. @_bridgetheatrehas had to bow to the inevitable & postpone the show. If you’re one of the 10,000 who booked, thank you! We will be back. And you won’t want to miss it: Dame Judi really is incredible. More info the moment we have it.’

The creative clip comes as Dame Judi revealed she actually hasn’t seen Cats – which received mixed reviews - despite starring in it.

She told BBC Radio 4's Front Row, “No, I haven't seen it. I didn't read anything about the response to it, nor have I seen it."

However, she said she was “aware of the response only slightly” as people have been “rather kind” to her.