If you happen to be in the Toronto area, be sure to check out the CFC Worldwide Short Film Festival June 5 to 10 where you will be able to see Friend Request Pending. Note: I did a search request for the film and it looks as though it will be screened at Bloor Hot Docs Cinema: Thursday June 7, 7:45 pm, but don't rely on that. The original article I read was at Toronto.com but the link to the Festival was incorrect and should have been changed to the one linked above. Still, there is a paragraph near the end which does provide a phone number for ticket information and you might want to check there.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, May 15, 2012 at 15:47 (PDT)

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Sunday, May 13, 2012 at 11:31(PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, May 13, 2012 at 11:03 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Thursday, May 10, 2012 at 20:08 (PDT)

As it turned out it was an all-new show, which was quite interesting in the same way that Charlie's usually are. It lasted for 30 minutes and will probably be available on the website a little bit later.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, May 10, 2012 at 8:09 (PDT)

I have no idea what this means, but this could be a continuation of the interview Charlie did with Judi last week or it could be a repeat. If you're interested in knowing which it is, be sure to check your local stations or go to Charlie's website tomorrow and check it out for yourself.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at 14:40 (PDT)

On another note. about ATGB. The houses in Jean's row of homes have all been painted pastel colors. Each one a different color--lavender, pink, green, yellow, blue -- it looks as if Jean's house is beige. The house that shares steps is yellow. I saw these on Google Earth. I like the way they appear in ATGB and was very diappointed to see them like this. They are so much more regal as they appeared on screen. Maybe other people have know this for a while but, it was new to me. I am so glad that when I visited in 2011 they looked just like they did in the series.

Bonnie, can't thank you enough for keeping us in the know. Thank you.

Carolyn Hancock
Peoria IL USA -- Monday, May 7, 2012 at 8:06 (PDT)

Sharon
Canada -- Sunday, May 6, 2012 at 20:51 (PDT)

Leanne
Toronto, CA -- Sunday, May 6, 2012 at 20:25 (PDT)

[The] "Entertainment Weekly" May 11 issue [has] the prettiest close up of Judi in "Marigold." One of our local newscasters remarked that he would see Avengers 3 times and then maybe he would go after that to see Marigold. I do hope Marigold gets number 2 for the opening weekend. Maybe it will be the total in North America that will matter, though, because it's only opening in 3 very nice theaters here in L.A. so I guess it will expand later.

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Saturday, May 5, 2012 at 15:01 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Friday, May 4, 2012 at 20:21 (PDT)

If you watched Judi with Charlie Rose last night, you probably discovered that John Madden and Tom Wilkinson were not on the show with her as had previously been announced. I hope fans of those two gentlemen were not disappointed. It was another interview which showed the chemistry between Judi and Charlie. Judi's portion of the show lasted about half an hour and is now posted on the site. Charlie had the good sense not to ask her if she was going blind and made me laugh when he said she had "one more" Bond movie. He corrected himself really fast.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, May 3, 2012 at 9:40 (PDT)

UPDATE: I checked MY local stations and it appears that My Generation won't be shown on PBS in Nevada. However you can go to the AARP website and see previous shows. The site indicates that Leeza Gibbons will be back with new shows on May 6th and the site has an archive and a link to see if and when the show is broadcast in your area. If it is not shown in your area, it will likely be placed in the archive so that you can see it online.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, May 3, 2012 at 7:56 (PDT)

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Tuesday, May 2, 2012 at 15:51 (PDT)

Don't forget Judi will be on the Anderson Cooper Show today. I'm guessing that some of you on the East Coast might have already seen it. In the meantime, there are many video snippets, including the one to the right, from the pre-recorded interview at Anderson's website. And I wouldn't be surprised if the whole thing shows up on YouTube soon.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, May 1, 2012 at 10:54 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, April 30, 2012 at 9:25 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, April 28, 2012 at 16:13 (PDT)

ON TUESDAY, MAY 1, 2012

In a daytime exclusive, Anderson sits down with Academy Award winner Dame Judi Dench. The famed actress addresses rumors about going blind and reveals how the medical condition is affecting her life. Dame Judi talks about the highlights of her career and the special moments that have defined her life. Be sure to check your time and station (or watch online).

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, April 28, 2012 at 10:00 (PDT)

"In the streets of Jaipur, Judi Dench (Evelyn), Celia Imrie (Madge), and Bill Nighy
(Douglas) before what was probably their 15th take in a tuk-tuk during the final leg
of their journey to the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel."

Notes on the filming of "Best Exotic Marigold Hotel"

More notes (Warning: a hint of strong language and a misspelled title).

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, April 28, 2012 at 9:20 (PDT)

---

Clearly Judi's done a lot of publicity for "Marigold". I'm sure you will discover many more interviews between now and the film's opening on May 4th, including this one with AMC.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, April 26, 2012 at 7:27 (PDT)

---

I enjoyed watching the interview. I hope that while she was in New York she also gave one to Charlie Rose. The film has been a great success in the UK and elsewhere in Europe. A lifelong friend of mine in Rome, with whom I talk once a month, told me that she went to see it, shortly after Easter, and she enjoyed it very much. I am also a fan of Maggie Smith and am looking forward to seeing her in this film.

Thanks for your review, Bonnie, I really appreciated it.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Wednesday, April 25, 2012 at 22:57 (PDT)

---

This may not be the best picture of the year, but it was certainly one of the best pictures I've seen in years. It was a different view of a group of people we are not used to seeing and the dialog was snappy, and somewhat cliched but it was completely entertaining. Any fan of Judi's will, most likely, feel the same way. If you are a fan of Maggie Smith's, you will be in for a treat. Something I didn't know before, but learned last night is that Diana Hardcastle, who was in the film as Ronald Pickup's, um, pick up, has been married to co-star Tom Wilkinson since 1988. If the reaction of the audience that was with me at the screening is typical, this film will be a big success.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, April 25, 2012 at 11:20 (PDT)

Yesterday was Judi's turn to attend the NY Premiere of Best Exotic Marigold Hotel at the Ziegfield Theatre. (Tonight I'll be attending the screening in Nevada.) She was on another of her whirlwind days, having also attended an exlusive luncheon honoring Mike Nichols for "Death of a Salesman." And speaking of exclusive, read about her invite to the Queen's Jubilee party next month.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at 8:05 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I really don't know when it will be available in the US -- it will premiere here in select theatres on May 4. If you visit Amazon and search for it, you can sign up to be notified, although I should post it well before the release. In the UK it will be released on June 25, 2012, but not in the format we normally use in Region 1. I will post it for pre-order soon.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Friday, April 20, 2012 at 12:54 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, April 20, 2012 at 12:00 (PDT)

Click here if you'd like to see more photos, as well as another Today show segment on dog adoption in which Judi escorts a dog to the cameras.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, April 20, 2012 at 10:27 (PDT)

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

See Judi Dench having fun with Matt Lauer on the Today Show this morning.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, April 20, 2012 at 8:27 (PDT)

And now for something completely different: An article about Janet Henfrey

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, April 19, 2012 at 11:28 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, April 18, 2012 at 8:37 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I have never waited for her outside a theatre, Leann, but from the stories I have been told and the videos that I have seen, the crowd just gathers at the stage door and waits for her to exit. And when she does I am told that she is very generous with her fans.

Leann
Toronto, Canada -- Sunday, April 15, 2012 at 8:14 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, April 11, 2012 at 9:30 (PDT)

Also, I suppose I would be remiss if I don't mention that it is all over the internet that the M character is "said" to be killed off in Skyfall. There are lots of rumors and flimsy stories that lack confirmations, so if you really want to read the gossip just do a search for "M killed off" and you will see what I mean.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, April 6, 2012 at 10:11 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes, there is a Google search box just above the comments and, by the way, if you Google "custard tarts" you will find over 20,000 results, many of which are recipes.

Jan M
Oregon, USA-- Monday, April 2, 2012 at 17:53 (PDT)

Sharon
Canada -- Monday, April 2, 2012 at 15:55 (PDT)

1) The drinks tray in the house is fully stocked and in plain and tempting view in the living room (though it's very hard to see people drinking gin and tonic with no ice).

2) Judy and Sandy seldom are seen drinking, so is it just the older generation?

3) In Germany, it is quite common to see people downing a quart of beer at 9 in the morning -- it's viewed as a food.

4) What you see on American television programs does not necessarily reflect lifestyle. It is normal in many households to have a drink (or drinks) before dinner, after dinner, or any time in between.

I like the idea that alcohol consumption is viewed as a part of everyday life and not as something special.

Joan in PA
USA -- Sunday, April 1, 2012 at 4:07 (PDT)

I wish you a speedy recovery from your recent surgery by raising a glass of white wine to you !

Yes, I noticed that the Hardcastles drink quite frequently and openly. It is indeed cultural but not particular only of the British; it is customary all over Europe. And if done in moderation it is very good for one's health too.

Take care.

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Saturday, March 31, 2012 at 22:50 (PDT)

Recovering from my second knee replacement surgery, I am, as with the first knee replacement, enjoying As Time Goes By from beginning to end. The daily dose of the Hardcastles keeps me smiling!

That said, something has struck me this time that I never really noticed before: the daily consumption of alcohol. This family -- like many folks in British television shows -- drinks quite a lot more than one sees in American and Canadian television shows -- and a lot more that one sees in real life. Or at least my real life. It's all very moderate and civilized ( I'm certainly not commenting re: any kind of moral consideration) but, even so, it seems remarkable.

Is this a British cultural thing? Has anyone else noticed or commented ?

Sharon
Canada -- Friday, March 30, 2012 at 14:24 (PDT)

In Surrey, actress Dame Judi Dench enjoyed the sun
at the Winter Derby Day at Lingfield Racecourse.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, March 24, 2012 at 15:26 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at 22:24 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at 7:24 (PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA-- Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at 8:09 (PDT)

The first is the article called (Titans of the Stage) from Sunday's New York Times Magazine which featured the picture below.

and second, we have a link to Getty Images to see recent video clips of Judi promoting The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. I'm sure you'll enjoy seeing them.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, March 12, 2012 at 16:39 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, March 11, 2012 at 16:59 (PDT)

Connie
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Thursday, March 8, 2012 at 12:06 (PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA-- Tuesday, February 28, 2012 at 5:20 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, February 23, 2012 at 15:48 (PDT)

Clearly this condition which, as Judi acknowledges, is NOT uncommon, but -- if it is left untreated, can lead to blindness and, even then, there is no guarantee. Judi is receiving treatment and has been for a long time. Every fan of Judi's knows that she never read her own scripts -- at least not in the 15 yeears that this web site has been active. This speculation, which continued thruout the whole weekend, just drove me nuts and I'm sure that Dame Judi was even more annoyed by it.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, February 20, 2012 at 11:00 (PDT)

Here's another nice article about Judi that appears in today's Express. Obviously she has been going all out to promote "Marigold Hotel" which opens this week in the UK. Unfortunately we're going to have to wait to see it in the U.S. Thanks to our wonderful anonymous contributor for sending it. And speaking of movies that Judi is in the middle of filming, take a look at these photos, taken yesterday, from Skyfall.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, February 20, 2012 at 10:11 (PDT)

Marisetta Magliocco
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Saturday, February 18, 2012 at 9:54 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, February 18, 2012 at 8:25 (PDT)

Here's an article about Judi that ran in today's Telegraph.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, February 17, 2012 at 10:15 (PDT)

Just my opinion.

Joan in PA
USA -- Thursday, February 16, 2012 at 11:50 (PDT)

This article by Chitra Ramaswamy ran yesterday (a Tuesday) at Scotland on Sunday.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at 9:29 (PDT)

By the way, as I mentioned the other week, YouTube removed the video called The Many Faces of Dame Judi Dench but I noticed this morning that it was up at Vimeo. So if you missed it, you might want to watch it now.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, February 11, 2012 at 13:06 (PDT)

The top video was uploaded to YouTube and shows a clip from tonight's Graham Norton Show. Below that you can click and see the video clip of Judi and Celia Imrie on a UK morning show earlier this morning.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, February 10, 2012 at 13:35 (PDT)

While Dame Judi was walking the red carpet in another part of London, Geoffrey Palmer is photographed arriving at The Oldie of the Year Award presentation. He did not actually win the award. This year's accolade was given to 71-year-old Justice Secretary Kenneth Clarke at a ceremony held February 7th, 2012 in London. He claimed he was shocked to receive the award “so soon”. Read more about this award at Wikpedia.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, February 8, 2012 at 13:06 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, February 8, 2012 at 7:44 (PDT)

See more photos and Read about the London premiere of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at 14:41 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Judi will be on the show this week in the US on Saturday Night on BBC America. Check your local station for time.

Also note that this Sunday the BAFTAs will be presented live. The Orange British Academy Film Awards Show will be shown on BBC America and Judi, who is nominated for one, is supposedly going to attend.

Marian
Galashiels, Scotland - Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at 10:35 (PDT)

I mentioned in June that Judi received a BFI Fellowship, but did not post the video of her accepting the award. Click on the link to see it.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, February 3, 2012 at 15:45 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, February 3, 2012 at 10:35 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, February 1, 2012 at 16:38 (PDT)

Normally reluctant to speak publicly, Dame Judi agreed to come to the Cambridge Union Society to take part in a Q&A session. It is an hour-long session that was recorded on 6/22/2011 and it does not begin until 34 seconds into the video.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, February 1, 2012 at 8:53 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, January 30, 2012 at 18:29 (PDT)

THE JUBILEE WOODS PROJECT Also read a nice article in next month's Saga Magaziine in which "Dame Judi Dench talks about retirement in the light of her new film The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel."

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, January 27, 2012 at 11:45 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at 12:01 (PDT)

And here's what Geoffrey's been up to: Campaigners vow to fight as they gather in Great Missenden

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at 11:34 (PDT)

More posters from the Marigold Hotel.

Also remember to check the Atgbcentral stores to pre-order J. Edgar (will be released February 21, 2012) in the US and Canada. At this time the release date or ordering information for the UK has not been posted.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at 7:49 (PDT)

At the moment all 5 videos are online at YouTube and have been for about an hour. We're all lucky enough to end 2011 on a high note. Thank you to vkangel33 for posting the video. I wish you all a very happy and healthy 2012.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, December 31, 2011 at 12:22 (PDT)

Click for more.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, December 31, 2011 at 12:54 (PDT)

Don't forget to watch the Many Faces of Dame Judi Dench tonight if you are lucky enough to be in the viewing area.

If you ARE lucky enough, click here. or no matter where you are you may click to read a review.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, December 30, 2011 at 8:44 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, December 29, 2011 at 14:05 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at 17:53 (PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at 16:15 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Friday, December 9, 2011 at 8:10 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 7, 2011 at 15:49 (PDT)

Variety has quite a bit of "For Your Consideration copy on J. Edgar Thanks to Connie E. from Los Angeles for alerting me to the coverage.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, December 7, 2011 at 12:23 (PDT)

Judi-inspired fashion?

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, December 6, 2011 at 12:23 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, December 5, 2011 at 11:47 (PDT)

	You still have time to bid on Judi's old coat. . . . and that's what our anonymous contributor thought you might consider doing. This same person pointed out the Daily Mail database of Judi Dench photos. You can view each one as a slideshow, but there are watermarks which, in my opinion, detract from the experience.

Estates Gazette caught up with Story of Christmas Appeal president Dame Judi Dench and other supporters about this year's appeal and what the charity means to them. Click the link to see video.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, December 3, 2011 at 10:17 (PDT)

Judi Dench and David Mills attend the Hennessy Gold Cup
meeting at Newbury Racecourse on November 26th.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at 11:30 (PDT)

Our anonymous contributor thinks you might enjoy this clip from My Week With Marilyn if you wait a few seconds after it ends you will also see the main trailer -- at least I did. The always-busy Geoffrey Palmer will be featured in another project called Parade's End. The five-part drama, adapted by British playwright Tom Stoppard, is taken from a quartet of novels by Ford Maddox Ford, and is directed by BAFTA award-winner Susanna White, who directed Jane Eyre and Nanny McPhee and The Big Bang. And, according to Dr. Who News, The BBC have released information on Matt Smith's project Bert andd Dickie, which he filmed over the summer. Written by William Ivory and starring Matt Smith, Bert And Dickie is the uplifting story of how two young men defied all the odds and achieved gold in the double sculls. Thrown together just five weeks before the final of the 1948 London Olympics, Bert Bushnell and Dickie Burnell not only pushed physical and emotional limits, but also rose above distinctions of birth and class to become Olympic gold medallists. Bert and Dickie's personal battle reflects a much greater struggle as London prepares to host the Olympic Games. In 1948, just three years after the end of the Second World War, London is half-destroyed. But, determined not to "let the Games die", the British Olympic Committee convinces Prime Minister Attlee that the Olympics could help bring the country back together – and the Austerity Olympics are born. While London again prepares to host the 2012 Olympics in a difficult economic climate, this film will remind viewers what the Games are really about -- heroic personal endeavour, courage, determination. . . and a little bit of luck! Matt Smith is Bert Bushnell, Sam Hoare is Dickie Burnell, James Frain is Jack Beresford, Douglas Hodge is John Bushnell and Geoffrey Palmer is Charles Burnell.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at 8:18 (PDT)

Sharon
Canada -- Sunday, November 27, 2011 at 15:41 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, November 27, 2011 at 11:31 (PDT)

I love the picture of Judi Dench and David Mills. She looks so relaxed and happy, hand in hand with him.

Thanks for all the updates which I follow daily.

Happy Thanksgiving to you and to all.

Marisetta
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at 21:34 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at 14:23 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at 10:25 (PDT)

. . . and, just in case I forget to say it later:

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at 7:46 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Sorry, Marisetta, it is already Wednesday morning and I just read your email after having already updated above this comment, but I thought I'd add that the file still has not been updated to show that its author might know who our Geoffrey is. The man in the photo looks to me to be the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, also named Geoffrey Palmer. And you're absolutely correct: he is no Lionel.

Marisetta
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Tuesday, November 22, 2011 at 21:35 (PDT)

A few more bits:

Christmas programming for the BBC was recently announced and it included the news that Eddie Izzard, Steven Mackintosh, Jason Flemyng, Larry Mills and Geoffrey Palmer star in Lost Christmas, which is “an urban fairytale” from the streets of Manchester.

Also look for Geoffrey as narrator on TV tonight in the Grumpy Guide to Food. It may already have aired on television in the UK, but maybe there will be a YouTube listing or repeats. While I was researching this I checked on YouTube and found (in addition to the Grumpy Guide to Christmas and the Grumpy Guide to Class), that there also exists a Grumpy Guide to work, also narrated by Geoffrey. The series is enjoyable to watch.

Speaking of Geoffrey Palmer, below is a cut from a page I noticed on the internet yesterday. I certainly hope it's been changed by now. UPDATE: It has not yet been changed to a picture of "our" Geoffrey.

Anthony Hopkins and Judi Dench are in talks for the lead roles in "Italian Shoes," which Kenneth Branagh will direct.

The project is based on the novel by Swedish author Henning Mankell, with a script by Richard Cottan.

It's the story of a retired surgeon living on a remote island in Sweden, who is forced to confront his past mistakes when he's reunited with an old flame.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, November 22, 2011 at 12:00 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, November 18, 2011 at 10:16 (PDT)

Bits of information: Judi Dench is to be the voice of the giant in the Giggleswick school production of Into the Woods. And She'll be featured in a BBC 2 documentary called Shakespeare and Us.

And one last thing: Television star Geoffrey Palmer will join those remembering loved ones who have passed away. The charity patron will be giving a reading as part of Tring's Light Up a Life ceremony, organised by the Iain Rennie Grove House Hospice Care.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, November 18, 2011 at 9:17 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, November 15, 2011 at 11:52 (PDT)

It's been a while since I've posted anything on the site but I have, of course, been avidly reading everything everyone has been posting with interest.

I thought I'd share a few photos from a wonderful evening I had last week to see "Seasons Greetings" starring, as part of a very illustrious cast, our very own Jenny Funnell. It was actually the second time I'd seen this play this year - I saw another production earlier in the year at the National Theatre starring Catherine Tate but this version was better paced and less fussy than the NT version.

I grabbed some photos and autographs at the stage door - would you expect anything less??? - and I had a lovely chat with Jenny about ATGB. She was really friendly and happy to talk about the show.

I have attached photos of myself with Jenny and Glynis Barber. Also photos of me with other cast members which may be of interest to ATGB Central readers - Denis Lill who people may know from such series as "Survivors", "Outside Edge", "Mapp & Lucia", "Only Fools & Horses" and "The Royal" amongst many others and Sue Wallace who made a memorable appearance in the last episode of the first series of Victoria Wood's "Dinnerladies" as the temporary canteen manager Nicola Bodeux.

Keep up the good work!

Regards

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Click on the link to see the photos. And thanks for sharing the pictures with us, Aaron. You're quite photogenic. You sent me the one of you and Geoffrey several years ago and I thought I'd repost it here.

Aaron Gregson
Redditch, UK -- Monday, November 14, 2011 at 13:18 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Monday, November 14, 2011 at 8:36 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, November 13, 2011 at 17:17 (PDT)

Also look for a short interview with Judi that ran today in the Observer (UK).

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, November 12, 2011 at 17:30 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, November 11, 2011 at 19:53 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, November 10, 2011 at 11:39 (PDT)

My copy of Love in a Cold Climate has just arrived.... can't wait to watch. Glad to hear you enjoyed it, Leeann.

The whole issue of radio versions of television sitcoms -- Britcoms! -- is so interesting to me. It seems to me that in Canada and the U.S. radio shows from the 30s, 40s and 50s were later made into television shows but I can't think of an example of a show simultaneously being made for radio and television.

(deleted)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: At this point in the comment a couple of sites were suggested where you could find Britcoms. I deleted the references as I usually do, since clearly I am hoping that you go to the Amazon Atgbcentral Stores to make a purchase. Almost every Britcom that is available on DVD or VHS is available either at Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.ca and the links are prominently displayed at the top of this page as well as on the front page. Also note that if you click on the Amazon UK site and search in the category Books for Keeping Up Appearances audiobook or To the Manor Born audiobook you will find them in a form that is playable in the US. Or you can click on the Amazon UK Atgbcentral Stores and search under books for the BBC Radio Collection to get them all. I know that things are tight all over, but I really appreciate it when you support this website with your purchases.

Sharon
Canada -- Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at 16:58 (PDT)

I saw an article today talking about how Judi loves Downton Abbey. It would be amazing if she were in season 3! I think we should write and suggest this. Take care.

Leann
Toronto, Canada -- Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at 16:55 (PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA-- Tuesday, November 8, 2011 at 11:33 (PDT)

Also, Judi has received another Lifetime Achievement Award -- this time from influential style magazine Harper's Bazaar. She was given the award at the fashion magazine's Women of the Year Awards at Claridges Hotel in London on November 8. The photos below were taken at last night's event.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, November 8, 2011 at 8:15 (PDT)

Thanks to our anonymous contributor for this interview with Judi about her role in My Week With Marilyn. And that same eagle-eye notes that an interview that Judi gave to Mark Lawson will run on Radio 4 Extra next weekend. I have the feeling that this might be a repeat of the program that I posted last August 31st, but that interview is not on my site and is no longer available at the link I provided at the time, so you might want to hear it again or listen for the first time.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, November 7, 2011 at 8:07 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, November 4, 2011 at 8:51 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes, and apparently Albert Finney is set to play M's superior. In fact I read also that Finney was going to replace Judi as M, but it was only one article that is pretty clearly wrong. Every other article says that he will be a high level official. Judi was one of the first-announced cast members.

Marla
Euclid OH USA-- Thursday, Nov 3, 2011 at 8:32 (PDT)

I just received "Love in a Cold Climate" late last month. I really enjoyed it. Michael Williams had a nice part in the series. I love seeing the two acting together. I restarted A Fine Romance today.

Does anyone know how many radio plays were made for "As Time Goes By"?

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I thought there were six in the BBC Radio Collection which was out of print, last time I heard.

I don't know how many episodes were actually run on the radio, but I have twenty of them. They were introduced on radio by an announcer and played, but I don't think they were sold and I am not certain that there was any new material. I just listened to the first minute or two of episode one and it sounds like a soundtrack from the TV show. I could be wrong, though.

Leann
Toronto, Canada -- Wednesday, Nov 2, 2011 at 16:42 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, October 27, 2011 at 7:55 (PDT)

Yes, she is . . . even when she appears to be dying.

Marisetta
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Wednesday, October 26, 2011 at 22:31 (PDT)

Judi Dench as Dame Sybil Thorndike in My Week With Marilyn

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, October 26, 2011 at 2:21 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes, it was the first thing I thought of, too.

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Monday, October 24, 2011 at 9:27 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Sunday, October 23, 2011 at 3:17 (PDT)

Marisetta
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Saturday, October 22, 2011 at 14:20 (PDT)

Geoffrey Palmer is recommending you watch this film, which was made by Keith Hoffmeister for The Chiltern Society. Please click the link above and watch the whole of it and follow Geoffrey's call to action - If you are in the area, go to highspeedrail.org.uk NOW and make your feelings known where it counts.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, October 22, 2011 at 10:40 (PDT)

I loved Laura in A Fine Romance. Her spikey personality, her brusqueness, her tendency to cut and run all ring true. I thought she was played perfectly by Judi Dench. Haven't we all known a Laura? I certainly have. Socially inept and introverted but still trying.

I certainly like Jean better -- would rather have her as a friend, even though she occasionally lies and schemes as Bonnie points out -- but I've watched A Fine Romance twice and plan to watch it again.

I've just ordered Love in a Cold Climate, another Judi Dench/Michael Williams series, albeit a mini-series. I am so looking forward to it!

Sharon
Canada -- Saturday, October 22, 2011 at 7:45 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: In her time, Judi certainly played some unlikeable characters -- ones that were nothing like the character she played in ATGB. For example, Barbara Covett (in Notes on a Scandal) or Lady Macbeth, or Queen Elizabeth, just to name a few that immediately popped into my mind. As a matter of fact, I think even Jean is not above lying and scheming. The character in A Fine Romance was enjoyable enough for me to watch and enjoy all 26 episodes.

Rochelle
Southport, Connecticut USA -- Friday, October 21, 2011 at 9:39 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, October 18, 2011 at 12:30 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, October 18, 2011 at 11:42 (PDT)

In the first picture, (L-R) Cris Croucher, actress Penny Ryder, director Chris Foggin and actress Judi Dench attend a screening of "Friend Request Pending" at the Soho Hotel on October 10, 2011 in London, England.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at 13:30 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, October 10, 2011 at 7:21 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Penny Ryder [the lady in the still photo below] did understudy for Judi Dench and Maggie Smith, according to her profile on IMDB.

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Sunday, Octobedr 10, 2011 at 18:09 (PDT)

Click to read the story.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, October 8, 2011 at 11:19 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, October 6, 2011 at 11:14 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, October 6, 2011 at 18:03 (PDT)

Back in June of this year I told you about a short film in which Judi was involved. The film, which is called Friend Request Pending has been completed and is an Official Selection of the 55th BFI London Film Festival. Click on the name of the film to read a history of the production and see a tiny clip at Vimeo.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, October 1 2011 at 8:24 (PDT)

Mike T.
New York, N.Y. USA -- Friday, September 30, 2011 at 20:38 (PDT)

As an aside, the lead article in the newsletter mentioned above is about Martin Clunes who is the star of the wonderful Doc Martin series which began Series 5 in the UK about 3 weeks ago. Not only is every episode available for you to see courtesy of Hulu, but a wonderful uploader has been sending episodes of the current series to YouTube and they are available within hours of the showing on BBC.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, September 30, 2011 at 13:54 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Monday, September 26, 2011 at 16:11 (PDT)

NOTE: I looked up W. E at IMDB and found no mention of Geoffrey Palmer and then I found a blog about the movie which seems to indicate he was in it, playing a character named Stanley Baldwin. I checked that against IMDB and saw many uncredited actors, but none playing that part, so I am not certain he is in the movie. It is not listed on his IMDB page as a project with which he is involved.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, September 26, 2011 at 10:09 (PDT)

James Ampela
Highland Park, NJ USA -- Monday, September 26, 2011 at 9:21 (PDT)

So perhaps it was her job to keep an eye on the freshness of the flowers and if she saw signs of wilting, to report it or to replace the offending bloom.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I think you are exactly right. And pretty funny, too!

Joan in PA
USA -- Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 16:50 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Regarding Mrs. Twillet (who may be related to another Mrs. Twillet who was mentioned earlier) -- I have no idea what a flower watcher is or does, except to watch flowers. She has been discussed a few times in the guestbook and in the observations of someone who attended the tapings. You can do a search of the archives for Twillet and you will see the references but I don't think anyone has ever come forward with anything about the nature of that "job." After all, she was 86 and probably had nothing else to do. Sometimes I just look smugly ahead and say "I'm 86" with a screechy voice for no reason and the people who know me know to whom I am referring. I am not 86, by the way, but it amuses me.

James Ampela
Highland Park, NJ USA -- Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 9:35 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: And thanks for hangin' in there with me, Sue. I appreciate the compliment.

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 10:54 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 7:54 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 7:26 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks for the compliment and the heads up.

Leann
Toronto, ON, Canada -- Sunday, September 18, 2011 at 12:29 (PDT)

The email said, in part, "Next week, as part of the "Ceramic Design from 1860, 21 Sep 2011 to 22 Sep 2011" auction being held at Bonham's Knightsbridge location, is a toby jug of Judi Dench as Miss Matty Jenkins in Cranford.

You can read more about Toby Jugs here.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, September 16, 2011 at 18:27 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, September 16, 2011 at 12:19 (PDT)

Above you see the first official trailer for The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and below you will see the poster.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, September 15, 2011 at 18:03 (PDT)

Many thanks, as always, to my anonymous donor for sending me the above picture of Judi at Priory Farm.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at 16:56 (PDT)

Larry Lain
Dayton OH, USA -- Tuesday, September 13 2011 at 10:22 (PDT)

And speaking of YouTube, I was excited to learn that the first episode of Season Five of Doc Martin, which premiered yesterday in the UK, has been posted to YouTube. If you are familiar with this wonderful series, you might want to watch it online. I also noticed that all previous episodes of this series are available at Imdb, If you love Britcoms, you will thank me for this link. You are quite welcome.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at 10:35 (PDT)

Dear Bonnie, How nice to hear and see Judi at the 9/11 memorial service in London. Here's another picture of Judi at the memorial service yesterday I also enjoyed Rochelle's pictures from ATGB locations. It was just a year ago that I did the same thing. I went by myself finding locations and enjoyed every minute. It just happened that the neighbor next door to Jeans house came out when I was taking pictures and offered to take my picture in front while I stood on the sidewalk.(Someone lived in the house at that time.) I was able to find many filming locations because I had several free days to do just that. It was El Metro Tapas Bar (quite a long tube ride from the Holland Park locations) and not Julie's Bar where Jean apologized to Sandy's friend who had wanted a position with Type For You. There are at least two scenes in the series that do use Julie's Bar. I found people very nice about helping me find places I was looking for. The only person I talked to that remembered the filming was the very nice neighbor who lived next door and had lived there all the years of the filming. It was great to know that I am not the only one who still looks for these locations and remember all the ATGB stories that go with them. Thank you Bonnie for all you do to keep us informed. Even though I don't write often I look at your site almost every day.

Carolyn
Peoria, IL USA -- Tuesday, September 13, 2011 at 9:37 (PDT)

There are many stories online about the services held in Great Britain yesterday to commemorate the 9/11 tragedies. Here is a description of what took place in Grosvenor Square.

Thanks to Phil Watson for sending me some information on a new show called Little England which starts tonight on ITV and features Geoffrey Palmer as narrator.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, September 12, 2011 at 7:34 (PDT)

As I had informed readers of this site earlier, during a recent stay in London, I did get to explore and take pictures of the locations used for much of the filming of As Time Goes By in Holland Park. It was a pilgrimage of sorts of me and I did it alone which was the best way to do it. Not a lot of folks would appreciate my obsession with this show.

Here are a few pictures: (described clockwise)

1. At the famous blue door, Number 21, of the house in which the characters lived. It seems unoccupied today.
2. Julie's Bar where Judy and Sandy often lunched and where Jean apologized to a potential secretary whom she had ticked off while in her office earlier.
3. (Name Deleted) in (Location Deleted) which stands right opposite Jean's home. Glimpses of the church and the garden are often seen when the characters cross the street outside Jean's house to enter their cars.
4. The building in which Lionel's flat is located, not too far from Jean's house.

I enjoyed my rambles in the area although it was a persistently drizzly evening and the light wasn't the best for taking pictures. I hope your readers will enjoy taking this tour of the area frequented by our favorite characters for so many years.

Needless to say, I now intend to watch the DVD of the series all over again -- for the nth time!

Cheers!

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks for the pictures. I'm happy to post them and it sounds as though you had a fine trip. You'll notice the deletions in the description of picture 3 and, of course, they are mine. I'm sure the restaurant wouldn't mind the extra business, but it is my policy not to post a residential address whether or not the space is occupied. Clearly there are neighbors.

Rochelle from Southport
CONNECTICUT, USA -- Friday, September 9, 2011 at 4:17 (PDT)

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Friday, September 9, 2011 at 7:37 (PDT)

Such wonderful memories reading all the posts and remembering the fun the International Hardcastles had in 1999-2000! I am thinking there should be a reunion this year. All of the kids have grown up too.

Thank YOU Bonnie for continuing to have the best Dame Judi/ATGB site on the planet!

HUGS,

NOTE FROM BONNIE: What a wonderful surprise to hear from you and know that you still remember. Thanks for the compliment and for being there at the beginning. A lot has changed since the late 90s, but ATGB will always be the same. And it's hard to believe, but just a few days ago we celebrated 13 years online!

Linda Bradbeer
Toronto, Ontario CA -- Thursday, September 8, 2011 at 5:53 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, September 7, 2011 at 7:23 (PDT)

For those of you who get Good Housekeeping, there is an article about Judi in the October issue, which is on sale now. " You can find many other snippets online if you do a search for "Judi Dench Good Housekeeping." The picture above is the UK cover of the magazine which is being offered at Ebay.com.

If you are interested in trying some of Judi's Rum and Chocolate Fudge get the recipe here.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, August 31, 2011 at 8:58 (PDT)

Above is another still of Judi in her new movie, Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, along with her co-stars, Tom Wilkinson and Bill Nighy. Rumor has it that some of the scenes in the upcoming film, Bond 23 will be shot in India -- they may or may not involve Judi. Thanks to Marta, from Pittsburg, who refers us to USA Today for some additional information on Judi's activities. And Olivia Wilde has replaced the pregnant Jennifer Garner in the film Better Living Through Chemistry, which Judi will narrate.

Click this link to listen to the two radio programs in which Judi participated over the weekend: the Front Row interview with Mark Lawson and the program called Twenty Minutes Quakers Don't Sing, a discussion about the Quaker Movement's relationship to music and silence.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at 6:43 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Monday, August 29, 2011 at 13:44 (PDT)

Judi Checks into the Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, August 29, 2011 at 6:44 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, August 25, 2011 at 11:04 (PDT)

I just updated the Atgbcentral US and Canadian stores to reflect the release of Jane Eyre on DVD. I checked the UK stores, but there seem to be only US imports in NTSC. I'd be grateful if you clicked on one of the links on my site to make the purchase of the DVDs that are available and if you choose to purchase the Blue Ray version, once you clicked on the link at the site you will be able to order that as well.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, August 20, 2011 at 8:22 (PDT)

UPCOMING PROGRAM FEATURING JUDI ON BBC Radio 3:

Twenty Minutes - Quakers Don't Sing Sunday 28 August - 8.10-8.30 pm BBC RADIO 3 Veteran actress Dame Judi Dench Dame Judi Dench, novelist Margaret Elphinstone and composer Sally Beamish contribute to a montage of thoughts, akin to a Quaker meeting discussion, and reveal their relationships with silence and music in tonight's Twenty Minutes - Quakers Don't Sing. Many creative people have found a spiritual home among the Quaker movement, but one thing seems to be missing from this most peaceful of all gatherings - music. Readers/Dame Judi Dench, Margaret Elphinstone and Sally Beamish, Producer/Lindsay Pell

Also, Jenny Funnell is touring in a production of Alan Ayckbourne's play, Season's Greetings. You can click to go directly to the website.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, August 17, 2011 at 7:40 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, August 15, 2011 at 9:50 (PDT)

En route home to the USA at the end of this month, I shall be spending a week in the UK. At the top of my To-Do List is "Hunt For ATGB Locations" in Holland Park, Kensington High Street and Shepherd's Bush. I have waited a whole year to do this! I am going to have such a blast and shall keep you posted on how I fared.

Rochelle
Southport, Connecticut USA -- Saturday, August 13, 2011 at 10:01 (PDT)

A spokesman for Visit Britain said: "We have taken the videos down, they are not appropriate at this time." He said the video, which feature dame Judi Dench and Jamie Oliver saying "you're invited", has been removed from the BBC iPlayer service, which hosts adverts overseas. "We have not changed our advertising and marketing strategy, but we have removed those videos for the time being," he said.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, August 12, 2011 at 17:30 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: So I guess there are actuallyy two mysteries that have been solved: the first is that was Stephen who said contradictory things about Penny's ability to follow through on an idea and the second being that it was actually Penny who predicted that Stephen was going to behave like dog with a bone.

Linda
Johnston, Iowa USA -- Tuesday, August 10, 2011 at 20:29 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Tuesday, August 10, 2011 at 16:29 (PDT)

"Stephen tells them that they aren't going to Spain. Jean is shocked and wonders if he has told this to Penny? No, he says. Lionel asks if he thinks she should be told. Jean wonders if he is going to tell her at the point when she is actually packing her suitcase. Stephen explains that he knows Penny and he knows that she will come to the same conclusion about this that he did. This is just an idea she got in her head and then "pop" -- before you know it, it's gone."

Then I found this in the summary of Season 6, Episode 6:

Lionel asks him if he really wants to move to the city. At the end of the day, Stephen is not that keen on the idea. He prefers the country. He tells Lionel that once Penny gets an idea she's like a steam roller -- she flattens everything in her path.

That is not to say that there was no reference to a "dog with a bone" - only that I was not able to locate such a reference in my notes. Jean accuses Lionel of gnawing on a joke "until there's no meat left on the bone" in Season 9, Episode 2.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, August 9, 2011 at 12:32 (PDT)

Linda
Johnston, Iowa USA -- Tuesday, August 9, 2011 at 11:15 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Tuesday, August 9, 2011 at 7:10 (PDT)

Fortunately there has been very little news related to ATGB and even Judi appears to be slowing down a bit. Maybe the newest thing has been the announcement that My Week with Marilyn will have its World Premiere in New York in October.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, August 8, 2011 at 12:34 (PDT)

Now niggling at the back of my mind is another episode in which, talking again about Penny, Steven says something like, when Penny gets an idea in her head, she's like a dog with a bone, just won't let go.

Does anyone else remember the contradiction (and which episode it was in)? Or am I imagining things?

Joan in PA
USA -- Saturday, August 6, 2011 at 13:07 (PDT)

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Saturday, August 6, 2011 at 13:20 (PDT)

Many viewers feel the way you do about As Time Goes By -- I certainly do. I was lucky enough to be able to buy it as a DVD boxed set and watched it daily through recovery from knee surgery. It was a tedious time and ATGB made it a lot more fun.

When there isn't much being broadcast, you can watch a lot of British television on Netflix. I watch for DVD sales at Amazon. Recently, I found two British favourites -- At Home with the Braithwaites and Man About the House -- in a remaindered bin in a discount store for $1 each..

Sharon
Canada -- Friday, August 5, 2011 at 19:51 (PDT)

Janet
Florida, USA -- Monday, July 18, 2011 at 9:10 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: You're welcome. She certainly doesn't seem to be slowing down, does she? Thanks for visiting.

Angela Mitchell
Glasgow, Scotland -- Monday, July 18, 2011 at 5:49 (PDT)

Roger
Amarillo, TX USA -- Saturday, July 16, 2011 at 18:33 (PDT)

"The older I become the angrier I become," she says. "Some people think everything drops off when you get older. That is completely untrue. I know a lot of dangerous old people."

And Dench at 76 is likely to be much more unforgiving than she was half a lifetime ago. "I was much kinder in those days but now I have no time for rudeness. I hate general injustice, unkindness, intolerance, prejudice about colour of skin or religion or the space that people take up. If I am offended then I say so. There is no point in keeping feelings to yourself."

Also I told you about this a while back and except for a change in the casting of the male lead, there still doesn't seem to be much movement in the production of "Better Living'"

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, July 16, 2011 at 9:48 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Wednesday, July 13, 2011 at 12:41 (PDT)

It has been quite a week for Judi. She's been presented with three prestigious awards, one of which comes with nearly $200,000 cash. And she was at Buckingham Palace at a reception for the Praemium Imperiale Awards receiving congratulations from the Queen. Also for the first time I read that she failed to follow protocol when she accepted her academy award and, as a result, feared the statue might be taken away from her. A representative from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, however, assured her that her fear would not be realized.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, July 13, 2011 at 7:14 (PDT)

British artist Anish Kapoor, right, and British actress Judi Dench react as they pose for the media during a Praemium Imperiale Awards press conference in London, Monday, July 11, 2011. Anish Kapoor is awarded the Praemium Imperiale Laureates in Sculpture and Judi Dench is awarded the Praemium Imperiale Laureates in Theatre and Film. To see more pictures of Judi at the event, go to Zimbio.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, July 11, 2011 at 6:58 (PDT)

For people who love this kind of trivia, a Britcom quiz ebook has been published. I haven't looked at it and don't know if it's good or bad but thought I'd pass along the information.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes, I'm pretty amazed at all the connections you can make (a la "Six Degrees") when listing the casts of Britcoms. Chef is another of my favorite sitcoms. It starred Lenny Henry, who was married to Dawn French, who starred in Vicar of Dibley, which also starred Roger Lloyd Pack, who starred in the Old Guys, which also starred Katherine Parkinson who replaced Lucy Punch in Doc Martin . I suppose I could do this all day, but I'll spare you.

Sharon
Canada -- Friday, July 8 2011 at 9:19 (PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Thursday, July 7 2011 at 8:48 (PDT)

She did just that and was kind enough to send me the reply.

The address at which you can write to Geoffrey is:

Conway van Gelder Grant Ltd.
8/12 Broadwick Street
London
W1F 8HW

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, July 5 2011 at 19:47 (PDT)

It's not the best program ever, but it's a cut above what's available elsewhere.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I enjoyed that series also. They just finished running Season 2 in Las Vegas. It was replaced by another round of After You've Gone, starring Celia Imrie and that is followed by Worst Week of My Life, Season 2. I'm looking forward to the second running of Outnumbered starring Geoffrey Palmer's daughter-in-law, Claire Skinner who leads a brilliant cast. It just ended its first run, but it was replaced by Worst Week so I'm not too disappointed. And I just got back from LA where I noticed that their public tv station is running Doc Martin, which starred Martin Clunes and is rumored to be returning next year --and, by the way, you can go to Hulu.com to see most of the episodes for free -- if you do start with episode one, season one. Speaking of Martin Clunes, I'd also like to see the updated Reggie Perrin, also starring Martin Clunes be picked up by PBS. Even though I watch American Sitcoms, I must admit that I do not watch reruns. I could (and do) watch most Britcoms over and over (and over again).

Joan in PA
USA -- Sunday, July 3, 2011 at 17:09 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, July 3, 2011 at 7:24 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, July 2, 2011 at 14:38 (PDT)

Sharon
Canada -- Saturday, July 2, 2011 at 11:04 (PDT)

Judi honored at the Czech film festival.

Click here see more pictures and here to see a video.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, July 1, 2011 at 14:38 (PDT)

I'm sure this must be relatively new as I'm sure I would have remembered her narration when I toured the Birthplace a few years ago.

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Thursday, June 30, 2011 at 14:10 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, June 30, 2011 at 13:48 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Thursday, June 30, 2011 at 12:01 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks, Sue, for pointing out that Geoffrey's son, Charles, directed "The Clocks." I thought that was the case, but didn't see it on the PBS website. I meant to look it up because I know it was previously mentioned in this comments section.

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Monday, June 27, 2011 at 13:20 (PDT)

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Monday, June 27, 2011 at 13:18 (PDT)

Also note that Judi Dench has received a fellowship from the British Film Institute (BFI). You could have fooled me -- I have received many alerts regarding this presentation and thought it was an old story, even though it is obviously a current award.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, June 26, 2011 at 16:40 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, June 22, 2011 at 7:11 (PDT)

	Dame Judi Dench has been awarded the Freedom of the City of London at a ceremony in the capital. Click on the link to watch a very short video that that was taken today after the presentation and read more about it at BBC News. (On that same page -- on the right-hand side -- is a video promoting British Tourism and starring Judi.) Or you can go directly to the Visit Britain Advert.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 18:28 (PDT)

I have the complete collection of Midsomer Murder. I have been collecting them for years. I purchased them one at a time as they came out. Series 17 just came out this week. I have seen some collections offered, they are made up of some selected episodes from different series. BBC America used to show them on Sundays but stopped years ago. I have never seen them offered anywhere else. Netflix offers some of the British detective shows but I haven't seen these.

Thank you. Bonnie for keeping us all connected through this site. I seldom contribute, but I am a faithful reader. Your efforts are very much appreciated.

Linda
Johnston, IA USA -- Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 10:22 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, June 15, 2011 at 9:18 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, June 14, 2011 at 14:00(PDT)

Geoffrey Palmer and psychologist Honey Langcaster-James had an exciting, jam-packed day of interviews at a studio in London.They were interviewed down-the-line by a total of 23 BBC and independent radio stations when they told listeners about the generational skills swaps. Geoffrey said: "Honey and I had an excellent day. The interviewers were genuinely interested in the concept of the swaps. I’m right behind this campaign, it’s so important for all of us to spend time with people of different ages if we want to understand where the other is coming from." Visit this link where you can listen to one of the interviews.

Although Geoffrey does not appear in the following video, I found it makes its point quite cleverly.

In other Abbeyfield-related news, a reception was held for walkers after their effort to raise money for a minibus by walking from Abbeyfield St Leonards on Sea to St Albans. They were greeted by Abbeyfield patrons, Geoffrey Palmer and Richard Baker and Head Office staff. The average age of the walkers was 76! The 86 mile walk took nine days, included visits to a number of Abbeyfield care homes and houses and was finished off in style with a celebratory cake and champagne!

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, June 14, 2011 at 12:07 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, June 14, 2011 at 10:22 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, June 14, 2011 at 7:11 (PDT)

Judi will also be starring in a 15 minute short film called Friend Request Pending.

I went to follow up on Dame Judi's appearance at the debates in Cambridge which I mentioned on April 27th, but I see that the cited page has been removed. Still I found out the date of the appearance (June 23, 2011 at 3 p.m. local time). Click on her name at the Cambridge Union Society calendar to see a bit more.

If you are only interested in Judi's appearance in Pirates of the Caribbean, this is your lucky day. Here is her entire performance:

And in case you have some curiosity about the basis for Judi's upcoming zombie movie, be sure to read this article and then click on the E'gad, Zombies! link to see for yourself.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, May 31, 2011 at 11:43 (PDT)

According to the Hartlepool Mail, "Mr. Palmer, who starred in As Time Goes By, is the patron of Abbeyfield and is supporting the awareness week --AGEnda to promote awarenesss between generations -- that starts on June 10."

According to Digital Spy, Dame Judi Dench is among the stars that have spoken out in support of a European ban on animal testing. The actress, who backs a number of philanthropic projects including a charity which helps poverty-stricken Indian children, has applauded proposed European Union legislation which will see a ban on products developed through testing on laboratory animals by 2013.

Isn't it nice? The only time we read about these actors whose work we love and admire so much is when they're doing good works. What a contrast to the Charlie Sheens of this world.

Sharon
Canada -- Friday, May 27, 2011 at 10:42 (PDT)

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Friday, May 20, 2011 at 7:19 (PDT)

There is a new movie with which Judi has aligned herself and it is called "The Curse of The Buxom Strumpet". Believe it or not, it is all about Zombies. Oh Boy! Judi has also been seen about town with Wildlife Conservationalist David Mills and you can read about that here. Here's a nice picture of the whole family at the Betty Blue Eyes premiere to which I referred a couple of weeks ago. There's Judi, her grandson Sam, her daughter Finty and I believe that's David Mills in the background. Philip Bretherton, as I mentioned a few months ago is appearing in a play called The League of Youth at Nottingham Playhouse until Wednesday, June 1st.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at 9:30 (PDT)

Sharon
Canada -- Friday, May 6, 2011 at 10:43 (PDT)

According to the article, "Oscar-winner Dame Judi Dench, usually reluctant to speak publicly, has agreed to take part in a Q&A session on Thursday, June 23."

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, April 27, 2011 at 9:30 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Tuesday, April 26, 2011 at 19:28 (PDT)

First, there is the play, Star Struck on Radio 4 on Bank Holiday Monday, May 2nd (on Afternoon Play 2:15 - 3 p.m. UK time). Here's a blurb:

Sarah has got the job of her dreams: working with Cal, an astronomy professor at a remote observatory in New Zealand, watching a planet being destroyed by a black hole. But then the professor registers a message from the dying planet and wonders if it can really be genuine.

Sarah is a girl geek who's only really happy at work. She feels at home observing the chaos and vastness of space; ordinary human concerns just seem trivial. She'd rather look at stars than deal with people. And Cal's an exciting person to work with – brilliant and intuitive, but also generous, funny and charming. He has an incredible capacity for work; he never seems to sleep.

When they receive a transmission from the planet that is being destroyed, Cal is convinced it is genuine.

Star Struck is written by Katharine Way and the cast features Julia Haworth as Sarah and Philip Bretherton as Cal.

The second is due to occur a few weeks after that at a Festival in Nottingham. Phillip Bretherton cast as Chamberlain Bratsberg in 'League of Youth' at Nottingham Playhouse from 13 May - June 1st.

I wasn't able to find too much about the play, except to say that it was a part of Nottingham European Arts and Theatre Festival (NEAT 11) and at the bottom of the linked page is another link to order tickets if you are going to be in the area.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, April 17, 2011 at 9:11 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, April 16, 2011 at 9:11 (PDT)

Here are a couple of shots of Judi with her grandson, Sammy, taken yesterday.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, April 15, 2011 at 16:11 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, April 14, 2011 at 18:37 (PDT)

Now for my senior moment. I seem to recall that there was an attempt to do an American version of One Foot in the Grave that starred Bill Cosby. It didn't last very long. Anyone else remember that?

NOTE FROM BONNIE: You can read about it here at Wikipedia.

Joan in PA
USA -- Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at 15:01 (PDT)

Other great "seniors" moments: Jean and Lionel standing on the banks of a river, sharing a romantic moment. Then Lionel has to "wee". Lionel proposing ... and having a hard time getting on one knee and getting up again. And, of course, the madly funny "hearing test" Lionel is subjected to by Jean, Judy and Sandy.

I wonder why the Brits do humour about aging so well? There's One Foot in the Grave, Waiting for God, Last of the Summer Wine and several long-ago series I haven't seen like In Sickness and in Health. Now there's the very funny The Old Guys. I can't think of any U.S. or Canadian series about older folks except Golden Girls..... Or am I having a senior moment of my own ?

Sharon
Canada -- Monday, April 11, 2011 at 19:49 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 8:59 (PDT)

I can remember another scene which reflects her more usual sanguine attitude. I don't remember the episode but she says, laughing, "Oh, it is a wrinklies' reunion".

And I agree with Sue -- for someone who is so ill-at-ease in so many situations, Lionel almost always manages to say exactly the right thing. The beauty of this particular occasion is that he manages it without pretending that she isn't showing her age... Lovely stuff.

Just thinking about it reminds me that, of all the things to admire about ATGB, the thing that I love best is that it appeals to (and satisfies) the romantic in me. The second chance. The fact that it's perfectly pitched plain vanilla love and marriage between two people who aren't perfect, who sometimes cross each other and yet manage to rub along happily. As I

Sharon
Canada -- Friday, April 8, 2011 at 19:05 (PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Friday, April 8, 2011 at 18:43 (PDT)

I know exactly what you mean. I've taken breaks from ATGB and have come back to it months later and find its charm all over again. To be honest, I'm amazed that the local PBS station which carries the program hasn't given it a hiatus in at least 15 (and maybe more) years. Obviously popular, but as much as I love it -- or anything -- absence does make my heart grow fonder!

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 13:23 (PDT)

I don't know about others but I've generally found that over-exposure to anything practically forces one to see every flaw clearly.

I absolutely love ATGB but I don't watch it endlessly. I bought the complete set of DVDs a couple of years ago and just tucked them away. I avoided it on television even though the local PBS station broadcasts it fairly continuously. Then, last winter, I decided enough time had gone by (so to speak) and watched the whole thing through, one episode a day. I found it just as delightful as the first time I'd come across it and better for the gap of at least two or three years during which I hadn't seen it at all, not to mention seeing it in order from the beginning. I've packed it away and will take it out sometime next year to enjoy all over again.

As an aside, I've just finished listening to And Furthermore and would like to recommend it to anyone who loves British television. It is terrific fun to hear Judi Dench (Samantha Bond actually reads it) talking about all one's favourites from years of British television.... men and women with whom she has appeared on the stage over decades from Lovejoy (Ian Mcshane) to Cleggy (Peter Sallis, Last of the Summer Wine) to Wallender (Kenneth Branagh) to Mr. Holbrook (Michael Gambon, Cranford) and on and on.

I loved hearing it told as a story but am sorry that the audiobook doesn't have the photographs that the print version boasts. You'd think the publisher might put the photos on a Web site for audiobook purchasers to see. . .

Sharon
Canada -- Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 18:23 (PDT)

I feel as though I've broken some kind of sacred trust or something. Do I need help?

Joan in PA
USA -- Tuesday, April 5, 2011 at 15:57 (PDT)

Click to read about Judi's purpose in visiting Hever Castle.

Also, with respect to Judi's having a Fan Club, I think sometimes she refers to my site as being one. It is not a fan club, although a lot of people who enjoy following her career have been "regular" contributors for nearly 13 years. Also she could have been referring to someplace else -- so no thanks to me is necessary.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA --Monday, March 27, 2011 at 11:46 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Monday, March 28, 2011 at 11:27 (PDT)

EMH
NYC, NY USA -- Monday, March 28, 2011 at 5:10 (PDT)

And thanks to Ridge for directing me to a review of And Furthermore in the LA Times last Tuesday.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA --Sunday, March 27, 2011 at 17:28 (PDT)

Winnie
NYC, NY USA -- Sunday, March 27, 2011 at 15:17 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Monday, March 21, 2011 at 16:00 (PDT)

I have to say that as a big fan of To the Manor Born, I was pretty disappointed in the 25th Anniversary Special. The characters didn't ring true and it didn't seem like the same storyline...... it was, as an English friend of mine used to say , pretty naff.

I guess I do think the ATGB reunion specials were not as strong as the series "proper" but it still felt like it was the same narrative, the same characters, the same time and place, etc. Can that be recaptured? Like to think so, highly doubt it. Love to be proven wrong.

I'll confess I'm not a fan of out-takes and bloopers. I prefer to maintain the illusion of reality created by the story-telling (writing plus acting) and not see the director's process or actor's mistakes.

I know these comments don't add much to the discussion .... just one person's opinion.

Sharon
Canada -- Thursday, March 17, 2011 at 19:47 (PDT)

I wholeheartedly agree with everything in your response to my comments, many years have passed and the two ATGB reunion shows weren't very well written. The grandchildren story line just doesn't really hold much interest for this writer either. I wonder though, how fans of "To the Manor Born" felt about their reunion show that took place many years after filming ended. I wasn't a huge fan of the series so it would be misplaced for me to offer an opinion on that special.

We've all been clamoring for a look back/bloopers/behind the scenes show and I think you've put that thought into words far better than I could. Geoffrey's comments, however,have sparked a renewed discussion of yet another go round among fans of the show, and maybe it is time to either put this show to rest permanently or move forward before time itself answers this question on its own.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I just downloaded the To the Manor Born special from YouTube and I enjoyed it. It was a special made 25 years after the last broadcast of the regular series and was, of course, missing some of its main characters (notably Daphne Heard, who played Richard's mother and John Rudling who played the butler, Brabinger.) The cast looked surprisingly good, but I think this clip from Wikipedia says it perfectly.

Writing in the Sunday Express on 30 December 2007, Marshall Julius described the 2007 Christmas Special as "so cosy and old-fashioned that I could easily have dismissed it with a cynical wave". However, he says he found himself enjoying it "about halfway through" and said "it was a real pleasure to see Peter Bowles and Penelope Keith, for both of whom I feel great affection, once again sparring on the small screen". Julius finished his review by commenting "Not that I'm saying I'd like a whole series of it but as a one-off event it was surprisingly welcome".

The British Comedy Guide was more critical saying that "whilst it gained great viewing figures it really wasn't a patch on the original episodes." This opinion was reflected in the voting for The Comedy.co.uk Awards 2007, in which the show picked up the title "The Worst British TV Sitcom Special 2007".

Until then you can comfort yourself with these Bloopers which have been posted to YouTube for quite a while. If you haven't noticed, the last DVD -- The Reunion Specials -- include that Bloopers Reel, plus a featurette with the whole cast that takes you behind the scenes. It is available from the Atgbcentral Amazon Stores (links above).

John Roy
Acushnet, MA USA -- Thursday, March 17, 2011 at 7:10 (PDT)

Bonnie if the cast was serious about their stated comments and seeing how the powers to be in England read your website from time to time can we begin an online petition to get the ball rolling????

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I don't think an online petition is really necessary since it has been made clear that the producers and their assistants already read this web site and know how many people wanted the show to continue. Personally I can't believe that they didn't take time to assemble a reel of bloopers and set aside an afternoon to do an interview with the cast and crew consisting of reminiscences. They could have made thousands of people happy and that's what they asked for and wanted. Obviously three of the castmembers were together in one room talking about it for the special and the other two would more than likely have given up a couple of hours to join them and everyone would have been pleased. Instead they waited for a few years and spit out two "reunion shows" which were not very well written and which, in my opinion were pretty contrived. It is now ten years after the last regular series show and with three major characters dead one of the only options left revolves around the possibility of grandchildren. I don't find that even remotely l interesting. So, no, I wouldn't want to be starting any petition for a continuation of the series. I don't know the first thing about film production, but if I had the rights to those outtakes I would approach everyone in the cast while they were still alive and I bet I would make a bundle selling the rights to the PBS stations and it would probably take me a week to have the project ready to edit. Loyal ATGB fans didn't ask for much -- all we asked for was an hour or two of conversations and clips -- nothing fancy -- and even though most shows were able to grant that wish for their fans, ours wasn't.

John Roy
Acushnet, MA USA -- Wednesday, March 16, 2011 at 11:46 (PDT)

I ordered Ever Decreasing Circles earlier this year but have not yet had a chance to watch it. There are clips on YouTube -- (the link to which is in the comment below).

I'm not the most fervent Richard Briers fan -- lovely though he was in Good Neighbours (The Good Life) -- but a long-time fellow Britcom lover -- who knows my tastes very well -- strongly recommended Ever Decreasing Circles.

I recommend On the Up ... it's also on sale, I think. Dennis Waterman (New Tricks), Sam Kelly (Barbara) and written by Bob Larbey.

Sharon
Canada -- Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 12:42 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: It is always a good idea to check YouTube and see whether or not there are clips that you can watch. Click on the link to see for yourself.

Joe in Indiana
USA -- Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 8:30 (PDT)

I noted in this Guest Book that at least two people have posted that their local PBS has stopped airing ATGB. Out of curiousity, I decided to call the local PBS station -- WNED in western New York -- to ask how they decide what to carry. (They seem permanently committed to ATGB and Last of the Summer Wine.) The person with whom I spoke said that WNED polls their supporters twice a year to ask them about their favourite shows. The key might be to support your PBS station and then let the programming department know WHY you're supporting the station. Loudly.

For those who, like me, enjoy audiobooks, Samantha Bond does a wonderful job reading Judi Dench's And Furthermore. It's a real pleasure to listen to these charming anecdotes about Judi Dench's life in theatre. BTW, Samantha Bond played Miss Moneypenny in four of the James Bond films that feature Judi Dench as M. In the book, we learn that Judi Dench appeared on stage with Samantha Bond's father.

Sharon
Canada -- Monday, March 14, 2011 at 14:02 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I thought the special was special and was particularly happy to see "live" interviews with all five of ATGB's leading actors. For those of you who missed the program -- Geoffrey said that if Larbey can keep writing the scripts, he would consider doing them and Philip, Jenny and Moira agreed. Judi did not address the issue, but she seems to be able to squeeze anything into her schedule. Interviews with actors Richard Briers, Josephine Hewson, who I don't recall seeing on one of these retrospective programs, Dawn French and Penelope Keith, who looks better every time I see her, were balanced with interviews of writers, like Bob Larbey, Richard Curtis and Roy Clarke were as insightful as you can expect in under 90 minutes. I didn't feel short-changed because it seemed to me to be thoughtfully done rather than just a lot of stitched together scenes without comment.

Joan in PA
USA -- Sunday, March 13, 2011 at 15:57 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes. And Jane Eyre has opened in some theaters.

Joan in PA
USA -- Saturday, March 12, 2011 at 9:57 (PDT)

Luckily for me I can watch a whole hour of the show on the Rhode Island PBS station on Tuesday nights.

John Roy
Acushnet, MA USA -- Tuesday, March 8, 2011 at 10:00 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA --Monday, March 7, 2011 at 11:15 (PDT)

During the broadcast, WNED in western NY announced that Moira Brooker and Phillip Bretherton will be making a visit to Toronto for a live audience Q & A in October... tickets for a donation of $75 each.

Re: And Furthermore... I've ordered it (as an audiobook for the fun of hearing Samantha Bond read) and I'm sure I'll enjoy listening to it. All I really know about Judi Dench is what I have seen on the screen -- her various brilliant performances. I admire them greatly. And, like most, people, I suppose, I have a mild curiousity about the artist herself. But I have to admit that curiousity is pretty well satisfied by the kind of information you see in newspaper interviews...

Ultimately, I am interested in the product more than the lives of those who produced it. I have enough interest in Judi Dench herself to go out of my way to ensure I see everything I can that she has done because experience tells me it's likely to be a quality movie, television show, play.

With respect to those who are more deeply curious, I personally am satisfied to take what she offers to us -- her performances and whatever she wants to say about her process -- and leave the rest to her private world.

Sharon
Canada -- Monday, March 7, 2011 at 5:06 (PDT)

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Sunday, March 6, 2011 at 6:04 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, March 5, 2011 at 10:35 (PDT)

Judi ends her book by saying she'd love to come to Broadway to do another play. With her record of selling out plays, there has to be a Broadway producer who can find a part for her. At least I will be hoping so. Then we can repeat the trip that many of you made to see her in Amy's View and have another meeting of the Hardcastle Fan Club.

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Friday, March 4, 2011 at 16:06 (PDT)

Judi was a previous recipient of this award and the ceremony will be telecast in the UK viewing area (which, unfortunately, does not include the US). It is a good bet that those who can see it will also see Judi.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, March 4, 2011 at 9:56 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: That was Season 8, Episode 6 -- the last one of that season.

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Thursday, March 3, 2011 at 8:57 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at 16:52 (PDT)

Good point but I'm not sure if you mean the last full season (or series as they're called) or the 2005 specials. I did think the specials were thin.

I think I've read that ATGB was "supposed" to end at the end of Series 6 but that viewer demand led to additional seasons.

For my own part, I thought Series 9 was fine, particularly if I keep in mind that nothing will have the inherent mystery of the development of Jean and Lionel's relationship through the first years and the later unfolding of how the characters would learn to live together. . .

Truth told, I was just happy to have it go on and sometimes wish it still did. . .

What do others think?

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Fawlty Towers, I think, was one of the most consistently funny, brilliantly written shows I've ever seen. It was only twelve episodes long and they knew exactly when to stop writing. John Cleese and Connie Booth wrote the episodes and I have never been bored while watching that show. The more prolific Bob Larbey was fortunate to have the likes of Richard Briers, Geoffrey Palmer, Penelope Keith, Judi Dench and many other accomplished artists interpret his words. He was highly successful and reliable and commercial, but I would never say he was a brilliant writer. Surprisingly Good Neighbors only shot 30 episodes and I was never bored when I watched that show. Maybe Larbey did tire himself out by continuing past season six -- there would have been a wonderful symmetry to ending it there.

Re: the upcoming documentary -- I have been wishing viewers had the chance to ask questions of the writers and actors. Personally, I'd ask Bob Larbey was the point of the homeless girl "Dave" was in the last episode. . . I still think it looked like groundwork for additional story lines.

Sharon
Canada -- Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at 12:12 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at 8:44 (PDT)

ATGB's brilliance is down not just to the wonderful actors but to writer Bob Larbey. That's been made even clearer as I've laughed through several other Larbey-written series (some with writing partner John Esmonde) -- Mulberry, of course; On the Up with Dennis Waterman (New Tricks) and Good Neighbours (or the Good Life depending on which side of the pond you're on).

If you haven't seen Good Neighbours, which boasts Felicity Kendal (Rosemary and Thyme), Penelope Keith (To the Manor Born, etc) and Paul Eddington (Yes, Minister), the whole series is available on Netflix. It's amazingly sharp and funny even though it was broadcast in the mid-1970s.

Thanks, btw, for the additional information on MIdsomer Murders. I understand, now, how they're packaged and sold.

Sharon
Canada -- Monday, February 28, 2011 at 12:12 (PDT)

Another clip for the show Behind the Scenes: from Script to Screen, which is scheduled to air here in the Vegas area on Saturday, March 12, 2011 at 9 p.m. Check your local listings and keep your eyes open for the theatrical release of Jane Eyre on the day before.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, February 28, 2011 at 9:56 (PDT)

I have the whole series of Midsomer Murder. Series 17 just came out last week. I started getting them when BBC America stopped running the series years ago. The collections that they offer are made up of episodes from different series. I do enjoy finding actors from other series popping up on these shows.

Also Bonnie, Thank you for all of the time and effort put into this site. I, like so many others, look forward to visiting this site on a regular basis.

Linda
Johnston, Iowa USA -- Sunday, February 27, 2011 at 8:51 (PDT)

Thanks to Connie for reminding me that Joan Street, who runs the ATGB (and A Fine Romance) Locations website, also runs a website for Midsomer Murders. Lots of information regarding the Series may be found there, including the contents of the different "collections."

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, February 26, 2011 at 13:15 (PDT)

About the "blue painting" - the flower/vase look very Matisse-ish to me... any photos of the whole painting?

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I have never been able to see a picture of the whole painting online. I have seen the picture in most of the later shows and I really don't think it would help. Many of us have been trying to find it for years and had no luck.

And thanks for the information about The IT Crowd. I've seen quite a few of them since you mentioned it and I enjoyed the ones I saw.

I never watched Midsomer Murders, but here is an article in Wikipedia that lists episodes by series and it show varying numbers of episodes per season and some of the "collections" on Amazon show only 4 episodes on some. I guess you can compare them, but there weren't as many as 17 different ones listed. And then again someone more familiar with the show might give you a better answer.

Sharon
Canada -- Thursday, February 24, 2011 at 6:17 (PDT)

Another thanks to our anonymous contributor who indicates that Judi was scheduled to appear in the UK so she probably, airplanes not withstanding, will not be going to the Oscars this year. Speaking of which, Oscars will be distributed this weekend (on Sunday) and -- an even more interesting program for those of you who get the station, is the Independent Spirit Awards on Saturday night.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, February 24, 2011 at 10:10 (PDT)

Speaking of Paul Chapman being in "Midsomer Murders," he was also in one of the first episodes, back in 1998, titled "Faithful Unto Death." It was one of the best of the series.

Matthew Gladney
Champaign-Urbana, IL USA -- 'Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at 16:31 (PDT)

Like Bonnie, I had reservations about Outnumbered. It's still not my favourite but I have enjoyed watching Claire Skinner and Samantha Bond play sisters.

re: Old Guys ...Katherine Parkinson also starred in The IT Crowd. I loved seeing Clive Swift and Roger Lloyd Pack.

In Canada, Vision TV is airing Birds of a Feather, One Foot in the Grave, Only When I Laugh,, Reggie Perrin, The Green Green Grass (a spin-off from Only Fools..), Only Fools & Horses, Ab Fab, KUA, Last of the Summer Wine and Father Ted. When one or another of these series comes to an end, Are You Being Served will start airing. We are spoiled for choice!

Sharon
Canada -- Sunday, February 20, 2011 at 20:51 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Actually our line-up features Keeping Up Appearances, ATGB, Outnumbered and The Old Guys. I've seen all six episodes from the first season of Old Guys and it is now running again. I hope they bought the ones from Season 2 as well. There are only 12 episodes total -- as many as Fawlty Towers and we'll soon grow tired of them. I enjoy them -- even more than I did before now that I've seen Doc Martin. The girl who plays Roger Lloyd Pack's daughter (Katherine Parkinson) is the same girl who played Doc Martin's second secretary.

And, speaking of Fawlty Towers and relatives, Joan, I forget to mention earlier that Samuel West is the son of Prunella Scales, so we're right back to where we began. Sort of like Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon.

Joan in PA
USA -- Sunday, February 20, 2011 at 17:01 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Speaking of what we saw last night, I must say that I've completely changed my mind about Outnumbered. I mentioned a while back that some of us in the Vegas area were invited to attend a showing of some of the Britcoms that might be added to the current Saturday Night Line-up and we were asked to vote for our picks. When I first saw the show I really didn't like it at all and I must say that it really grew on me particularly because of the kids' often ad-libbed dialogue. One of the little scene-stealers, Ramona Marquez, is in The King's Speech and plays the young Princess Margaret. Two ATGB associations: Claire Skinner (Geoffrey Palmer's daughter-in-law) plays the female lead and Samantha Bond, who often played opposite Judi Dench and who, narrates the audiobook And Furthermore, plays Claire's sister. Here's a sample in which you can see them all.

Joan in PA
USA -- Sunday, February 20, 2011 at 15:19 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, February 20, 2011 at 9:19 (PDT)

And a follow-up on the petition to save the forests:

BLUR star GRAHAM COXON has applauded U.K. officials for deciding against selling off Britain's public-owned forests after a campaign spearheaded by ANNIE LENNOX and DAME JUDI DENCH.

The two ladies, along with model Lily Cole, Gillian Anderson, Richard E. Grant and designer Dame Vivienne Westwood, signed a petition organised by conservationists at Save England's Forests, urging the government not to sell off valuable woodlands all over Britain.

The passing of a bill would have allowed officials to sell public forest estates for commercial interests.

But the proposal was officially rejected on Thursday (17Feb11) after Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman confessed the government had "got this one wrong" - and Coxon is thrilled the consultation has been halted.

I guess when one campaign ends, another begins. This time Judi wants to save a Scottish Cinema.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, February 18, 2011 at 10:01 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, February 18, 2011 at 16:23 (PDT)

I particularly enjoy A Fine Romance (Judi and her real-life husband, [the late Michael Williams] of course), Mulberry, On the Up (with Joan "Madge" Sims). I'm looking forward to catching up with My Good Friend, I Hope it Rains and others. For some, Bob Larbey wrote every script, for some he worked with long-time writing partner John Esmonde and, in other series, he wrote just some of the scripts. You can see all of Bob Larbey's writing credits on IMDB.com.

What I have found is that I always really enjoy the situations, the characters and the stories when Bob Larbey is involved. As always, in much British television, it's all about the writing....

Most of these series are available from one Amazon or another. If they're only available in Region 2 format and you have an Apple computer, you can play them. That said, you can apparently only switch Regions five times before the computer locks in the last chosen Region forever.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Be sure to click on one of the links at the top of this page to buy from an Amazon store. I know that Mulberry is available in the US Store as a Region 1 DVD and it and many other DVDs are available at Netflix. Also, DVDs from other regions play on the PC as well as the Apple Computer and the number of times you can switch the formats varies, but it is usually not as many as five times. You can also get a multi-region DVD player to do the job.

Sharon
Canada -- Thursday, February 17, 2011 at 7:36 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, February 16, 2011 at 7:47 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 16:57 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: You bet I am. Thank you, Ruth -- I've embedded it down below.

Thanks, Ruth :)
Aitkin, MN USA -- Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 14:04 (PDT)

Marisetta
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 10:25 (PDT)

One area that changed quite dramatically through the series was Rocky's sitting room or reception room. I think I remember that when we first saw it, it had a juke box and a pinball machine. I think it may have changed even before Rocky gave the house to Lionel and Jean.

Sharon
Canada -- Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 6:49 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 7:19 (PDT)

There's a review of Judi's autobiography in today's New York Times. Thanks to Sue and Sharon for alerting me. (The above photo was taken at her Beverly Hills hotel.)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Monday, February 14, 2011 at 16:23 (PDT)

How exciting to know that Judi is filming in LA. I don't believe she's ever filmed a movie in the USA before, and I love the photos of her on set.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: It seems to be everywhere on the internet: Better Living Through Chemistry. It is described in the Variety article as telling "the tale of a straitlaced small-town pharmacist stuck in a loveless marriage who rediscovers himself through an affair with a wild, drug-experimenting trophy wife." and is expected to begin filming in August either in Washington or Georgia.

Connie E.
Los Angeles, CA USA -- Monday, February 14, 2011 at 10:00 (PDT)

Anyway, keep them coming, if you notice any more, it's fun!

Thanks always,

Marisetta
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Sunday, February 13, 2011 at 14:48 (PDT)

These are the pictures which show changes to the set over time. Here are at least 3 changes to the kitchen tile (behind Judith & Lionel. The Bread Crock became a bit more complicated and ended with a design around the word "bread". The cookbook holder has changed from green to black and the door (which I never noticed) from green to blue -- and, as you can see, the pictures in the frames are long gone. If you know the name of the "blue" picture in the later series, please tell us and you will make a lot of people happy. And I'm tossing in the picture of the wine rack just because you may not have noticed it.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, February 13, 2011 at 11:00 (PDT)

National Doodle Day supports the work of Epilepsy Action, a registered charity in England (No 234343) Epilepsy Action is the working name of British Epilepsy Association.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, February 13, 2011 at 10:26 (PDT)

The bread crock also caught my eye but I have no advice as to where to get one. mytableware.com appears to sell Portmeiron patterned bread crocks on eBay but I think the ATGB crock was plain and had the word BREAD on it. That style is actually shown on the Tesco site but is apparently no longer available. Good luck with the search!

Since we're in the kitchen, one of the things I always enjoyed about the show was that Jean was often seen actually cooking - preparing dishes and putting them into the oven, cleaning veggies, etc. She always did it effortlessly (apart from the famous flamande) while chatting with Lionel or the girls. I thought that added to our sense of Jean as a very competent person. Judi Dench is a great actress but I'd be willing to bet that, in this case, it all came naturally and that she's a good cook, too.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I received this email from Sharon yesterday, but didn't read it until this morning (Sunday). I spent this morning checking out videos of the Hardcastle/Pargetter kitchen and noticed quite a few changes over the years. First, the original Bread Crock had the word Bread on it and only the "B" had a design around it. The later one has the entire word encircled with the design for which the 1869 Victorian Pottery Company is known. The table changed over the years as did the tile on the wall. I have a nice photo of the cookbook holder holding a book, but somehow it has changed into a bright green color. I also wondered why, when there is a huge wine rack right next to the refrigerator, Lionel was trying to make one. Speaking of changing colors I have a photo of Jean opening the door at Number 21 and it was green. Later this became a blue door. Maybe they should have held on to the props. I'll post the photos later today.

Be sure to check out the BAFTAs tonight on BBC America.

And lastly, don't say I didn't mention the bra that Judi designed for a charity auction. The bidding is still open. Hurry.

Sharon
Canada -- Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 17:14 (PDT)

Oh, and for those of you still looking for the bread crock it is by "1869 Victorian Pottery Company" and I did see two of them on eBay UK (without lids). Unlikely they would agree to ship outside of the UK. I did notice lots of spice jars which are part of the same collection but very small.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 15:09 (PDT)

Sherry from Macon, GA, writes about attempting to find a bread crock similar to the one seen in the kitchen of ATGB. It reminds me of the fabulous crock I found at a tag sale in Fairfield, Connecticut, for $5. It belonged to an English family who were leaving the States to return to England and wished to sell most of their movable estate. The lady told me it had belonged to her English grandmother and was traditionally used in England to keep bread fresh. A few months after I purchased it, I saw the exact crock in the kitchen on the sets of my favorite film of all time -- Robert Altman's Gosford Park, set in the 1930s. I was so delighted that I prodded my husband repeatedly in the ribs saying, "That's our crock. Do you see it?" The crock continues to remain one of my favorite possessions. I wish Sherry luck in finding one. For me, it has always been about the thrill of the chase -- so keep looking.

Rochelle
Southport, CT USA -- Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 11:29 (PDT)

Lots of photos of Judi on the sidelines while shooting J. Edgar today, but I think these are the best of them. You can discover shots of her with her mouth full, if you want to go to Zimbio, but you won't catch me posting any of them. And, while we're at it, here's the latest rumor.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 10:47 (PDT)

I enjoyed seeing the photos of Dame Judi as Hoover's mother. Thanks for posting them.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Thanks Marisetta. As always, I appreciate your contributions. As it happens I was just ready to post Sherry's comment when yours came in, but I thought I'd post it anyway because I didn't remember the name of her recipe and it made me laugh again.

Marisetta
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 9:52 (PDT)

Joan in PA
USA -- Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 8:10 (PDT)

Its a cookbook stand designed by Robert Welch and sold by ChesVictors. I fell in love with it years ago while rewatching the series for the gazillionth time. I like the way "Jean's Home" is decorated and was trying to find particular favorite pieces to use in my own home, especially the kitchen. I found this item online after a long search and my mom (an ATGB convert) was kind enough to get it for me for Christmas (in 2005). Its been in my kitchen ever since and I absolutely still love it. Its very heavy, and smaller than you would think. I like that it is on a pedestal as this allows you to see the book over the items on your kitchen counter while you are using them and to turn the pages without having to clear space. I like seeing it every day even without a cookbook on it. In the series, it only had a book on it once or twice, and I still get a kick out of the fact that the one time we see Jean using a cookbook (to cook a complicated recipe for Lionel on his move-in day) she didn't use it at all!

My next purchase was going to be the bread crock, but they are no longer available new and for purchase here in the states. I have found them (very inexpensively) on UK ebay, but no one is willing to ship them overseas due to their weight. Sigh, poor me.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Once again someone comes thru! Thank you for finding this item. I did a search for "Robert Welch cookbook stand" and came up with many, many hits for this item and there is quite a price range so if you're interested, keep looking for the best price. They come in quite a few colors and here's one at A La Cook to get you started.

Sherry
Macon, GA USA -- Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 6:27 (PDT)

		Here's an ATGB trivia question - one I don't know the answer to but have long wondered about. In Jean's kitchen, on the counter behind the table, there's an object that looks like a metal representation of an open book on a stand. What the heck is it? My only guess is that it's some kind of cookbook stand....pasta dryer? sculpture? NOTE FROM BONNIE: Looks like a book-holder to me.

Sharon
Canada -- Friday, February 11, 2011 at 13:17 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: You are not the first person to ask me that question, but the answer I always give is "I don't know." I'm not sure how long her stay in LA will be -- she seems to have been there since the first day of shooting and may finish her work before the end of the month. I hope she is invited and able to stay for the ceremony.

Marla
Euclid OH USA -- Friday, February 11, 2011 at 11:16 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, February 11, 2011 at 10:29 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, February 9, 2011 at 12:56 (PDT)

Off the track a bit, but I know that many ATGB fans also are faithful KUA viewers. Go to Maryland Public Television for a look at a young, slender, very talented Patricia Routledge (aka Hyacinth Bucket) singing Gilbert and Sullivan. I think you'll enjoy it.

Joan in PA
USA -- Tuesday, February 8, 2011 at 17:15 (PDT)

I had never noticed the disappearing tufts in the wings of Lionel's chair, but I did notice a slight change in color in the later episodes: it's a different shade of green. NOTE FROM BONNIE: Yes I can see it does seem to be brown as Sharon suggests. The picture at left is from one of the reunion shows. I seem to remember that some pieces had to be replaced because so much time had passed between the last season and the reunion shows and the originals were unavailable.

Marisetta
Sierra Vista, AZ USA -- Monday, February 7, 2011 at 20:48 (PDT)

Sharon
Canada -- Monday, February 7, 2011 at 14:04 (PDT)

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Monday, February 7, 2011 at 7:22 (PDT)

Has anyone else noticed that Lionel's green chair changed during the seasons? The first chair had tufts in the wings. The later chair didn't. NOTE FROM BONNIE: I don't remember if anyone has mentioned this before, but I don't think so. Here's a picture of the first time we saw the chair in Season 3 with tufts on the wings. The later picture of Lionel in the chair is from season 9, without tufted wings.

Chita Mulholland
location unknown -- Saturday, February 4, 2011 at 16:20 (PDT)

I was remembering that Lionel once said about Jean that she "never tried to be anything" -- a lovely acknowledgement of her character -- but I couldn't remember the context. I searched and found the Database of Movie Dialogs which reminded me that Lionel described Jean to Sandy in that way when Sandy was helping him with book revisions.

Good fun.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Here is a direct link to quotes from As Time Goes By.

Sharon
Canada -- Thursday, February 3, 2011 at 8:03 (PDT)

Viewers of ATGB might have already picked up on this and commented on it elsewhere in this website. . . but I was jumping on my couch like a Jack in the Box at home yesterday. You see, I was watching a 1995 film called Jack and Sarah starring Richard E. Grant when I realized that the home of the character he plays in the film is located on the same street as Jean's home in Holland Park in ATGB. In fact, in one of the scenes, Ian McKellan and Eileen Atkins (who also star in the film) cross the street and walk right by the house with the navy blue door that was used as the location of Jean's home. And as if these coincidences are inadequate, Judi Dench is in Jack and Sarah too -- she plays Grant's perfectionist, meddling mother quite wonderfully, as always. I do believe ATGB viewers would enjoy seeing this film.

Rochelle
Southport, CT USA -- Sunday, January 30, 2011 at 10:44 (PDT)

Sally Williams
USA -- Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 19:06 (PDT)

When he does this in other instances he unintentionally guarantees the proverbial 'early night' with Jean!

Mike T.
New York NY USA -- Friday, January 28, 2011 at 19:36 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, January 28, 2011 at 16:10 (PDT)

Sharon
Canada -- Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at 19:27 (PDT)

With regard to Judi's recent award...I don't think she was 'thanking' her husband Michael. If I'm not mistaken, a video was shown prior to presenting her with the award. Although I've not seen it, I believe the video included clips and comments from her husband Michael, Kevin Spacey, Billy Connolly, etc.

NOTE FROM BONNIE: I do believe you're right, Margaret. I looked at the clip again and she did say she was taken by surprise by the film and she knew that Peter Hall would be there, but she didn't expect that they were going to have Kevin Spacey and Billy Connolly and her husband. She did not thank her husband and I misspoke when I said she did.

Margaret LaFontaine
Clearfield, KY USA -- Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at 15:38 (PDT)

I'm sure there are countless other instances I haven't listed here. It is these foibles that make him so lovable. To me he is most competent when he is looking out for and expressing his love for Jean (and the other women in the house, as Winnie points out). I think a lot of the comedy comes from his portrayal in this light. Jean, on the other hand, is a competent, successful business woman. The comedy comes from her when she constantly meddles in others' business.

Just my opinion!

NOTE FROM BONNIE: You just reminded me of the time when he shredded the only copy of his book. Apparently he doesn't know how to do office work very well either. Thanks for the laugh. Also, I would agree that the American rewrite of the mini-series was not very good, but I don't think that means they ruined the original. I think that the original was probably not very good in the first place.

Sue
Portland, OR USA -- Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at 12:17 (PDT)

	Bonnie, I swear I heard "my husband," too, and have absolutely no explanation. NOTE FROM BONNIE: Someone suggested privately that those people she mentioned might have been included in a film about her careeer that was shown during the ceremony. While we're still talking about yesterday's Life Achievement Award I thought I'd post these photos, which were taken by David M. Benett/ Getty Images.

Marla
Euclid, OH USA -- Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at 12:58 (PDT)

Geoffrey Palmer reopens Risborough charity shop

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at 11:11 (PDT)

Thanks once again to our anonymous contributor who sent a link to a very short video interview with Judi at the South Bank Awards Presentation earlier today. I thought she thanked "my husband" and admit to being confused by this. Enlighten me, someone. . . On another subject: Judi is preparing to start filming 'J. Edgar' -- the biopic of former FBI director J. Edgar Hoover -- alongside Leonardo DiCaprio. And the star admits her main motivation for accepting the role was having the actor-turned-director at the helm. She said: "I'm flying off next week to do a movie with Clint Eastwood, I play J. Edgar Hoover's mother. What attracted me to the role? Clint Eastwood of course!" Judi, 76, also hopes to star in James Bond movies until she dies.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at 18:18 (PDT)

Winnie
New York, NY USA -- Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at 16:00 (PDT)

Judi was honored at the South Bank Sky Arts Awards on Tuesday for a career that has spanned more than 50 years. ************ In other news, Judi is among those who signed the petition described below: A bill is currently being debated in Parliament which could allow officials to sell public forest estates to commercial interests. In part, the petition letter reads, "Our forests nurture countless species of native plants and wildlife. We have relied on them since time immemorial yet we are only a heartbeat in their history. "We, the undersigned, believe it unconscionable that future generations will no longer enjoy the guarantee of a public forest estate." Another cause with which Judi is associating herself is education in the rural areas [of India] where education has not yet popularized among the low-income groups. ************ To the left is a recently released still from the upcoming Jane Eyre.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Tuesday, January 25, 2011 at 9:30 (PDT)

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Thursday, January 20, 2011 at 9:48 (PDT)

Many thanks to Phil for keeping his eyes open and alerting me to the fact that "Judi was interviewed on Sunday morning's Andrew Marr Show on BBC-1 TV. He notes that it was filmed at her home.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Sunday, January 16, 2011 at 10:12 (PDT)

REMINDER: Don't forget to watch the Golden Globes tomorrow night to see how Judi's nomination goes. I'm thinking that Claire Danes will edge her out for her performance as Temple Grandin.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 10:12 (PDT)

I have been an ATGB fan since discovering it on PBS when it was still being produced.

For the first time this winter, I watched the whole series from beginning to end -- rationing one episode per day! -- and love it more than ever.

In this viewing -- after having not seen any episodes for a couple of years -- I was struck by the character "Dave" in the final episode. Surely she was a character meant to take the place of the girls had the series continued into Series 10. Has anyone any knowledge about whether this might have been the case or whether the continuation of the series was ever planned?

As well, I recently re-watched a "Christopher Eccleston" Dr. Who in which a blue-skinned alien (who sadly met an untimely end) bears a remarkable resemblance to Jenny Funnell... but that is not the name of the actor credited. Has anyone else noticed this?

Thanks for a great site.

Sharon
Canada -- Friday, January 14, 2011 at 4:13 (PDT)

Thanks to Phil for directing me to Flicker to see this photo of Geoffrey. I found the others, which I've never before seen at the same website.

I've corrected a few of the statements in the last comment, based on Phil's email to me. I said the picture was of Geoffrey and his co-star, Carla Lane. Of course, Geoffrey's co-star in Butterflies was Wendy Craig and the writer of the series was Carla Lane. Also, I meant to say that pictures of Trevor Bannister and Andrew Sachs were also in the Tellyspotting Flicker feed; instead I said Trevor Sachs was pictured.

A couple of other things crossed my desk this week:
Bond 23 has been given the go-ahead and is expected to be released in November 2012. Judi will also participate in an ad campaign for VisitBritain to promote tourism.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Friday, January 14, 2011 at 11:37 (PDT)

And the news is that Judi Dench's role in J. Edgar is that of Hoover's mother.

Bonnie Rottstin <rottstin@atgbcentral.com>
Henderson, NV USA -- Saturday, January 8, 2011 at 11:28 (PDT)

Gemma in PA
USA -- Wednesday, January 5, 2011 at 9:24 (PDT)

NOTE FROM BONNIE: Don't forget to click on one of the links above to access the Atgbcentral Amazon Stores. Your purchase at any Amazon store will help support this website.

Joe in Indiana
Rockville, IN USA -- Monday, January 3, 2011 at 9:34 (PDT)

Want to thank you for your Guest Book notes and keeping it up to date. I think the series' success is owed in equal parts to Geoffrey Palmer, Judi Dench, Bob Larbey. ATGB was perfection on all accounts including production & directing. QUESTION: Have you heard any discussion of Judi Dench playing Miss Marple in a movie or made for TV event? She would be wonderful, I'm sure. NOTE FROM BONNIE: No, I haven't heard any such discussion and she's much too busy to take on such a role. For the last several years Julia McKenzie (left) has played Miss Marple and she's not going anywhere any time soon. Also I'd include Jenny, Moira, Philip, Frank, Joan, Paul, Moyra and Janet in your list and then I'd throw in Tim and Vivienne for good measure.

D. Curran
Spokane, WA, USA -- Saturday, January 1, 2011 at 22:19 (PDT)

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