Dame Judi Dench is an undisputed legend of the stage and screen. Over a career that has spanned some seven decades, the octogenarian has portrayed queens, murderers, spymasters, literary characters, historical figures and more – including one appearance as (ahem) a singing cat. And let’s not forget, too, that she has filled her trophy shelves with an Academy Award, a Tony Award, two Golden Globe Awards, four British Academy Television Awards, six British Academy Film Awards and seven Olivier Awards.

Jay Blades, meanwhile, is a former labourer turned furniture restorer turned beloved TV star, thanks to his work on The Repair Shop. And, despite there being some 35 years between the pair, he and Dench have become the very best of friends – a relationship that’s set to be explored in a genuinely soul-soothing TV special for Channel 4 this summer.

Blades and Dench met for the very first time when she appeared on his show, The Repair Shop, and asked if he might be able to restore a pocket watch that belonged to her late husband, Michael Williams.

Now, three years later, the duo will embark on a journey down memory lane together for Dame Judi & Jay: The Odd Couple, sharing the places and people that made them who they are today.

“Keen to learn more about each other’s backgrounds and upbringings, the nostalgic one-off will see the duo embark on a journey to explore the places and people that have shaped their vastly different lives,” promises the official synopsis.

It continues: “Travelling together across the UK, exploring London and Stratford-upon-Avon, Judi and Jay unveil anecdotes about the path to their incredible successes, introducing each other to special people, past times and places that have influenced who they are. From Hackney’s Ridley Road Market to The Old Vic theatre, Judi and Jay head to some of London’s most memorable places, showcasing the city’s vast culture and diverse neighbourhoods.

“This biographical travel show is an intimate portrait of true friendship, while also telling the story of class, race and social mobility in Britain through the years.”

You’ll laugh (and likely cry, too; the duo visit the grave of Dench’s husband together) throughout the programme, which celebrates the joy of friendship and connection – and reminds us that it’s never too late to forge a meaningful relationship with someone we cherish dearly.

Dame Judi & Jay: The Odd Couple is on Channel 4 at 9pm on Sunday 18 August.

Images: Channel 4