In a recent event that stirred controversy, English comedian and late-night talk show host James Corden faced backlash for a joke aimed at the esteemed British actress, Dame Judi Dench. The incident occurred during the 11th Breakthrough Prize gala held in Los Angeles on April 5, 2025.
While entertaining the audience, Corden shared an offbeat quip that referenced Dame Judi Dench in a manner that many found inappropriate:
“Tonight is the one night that Hollywood and science come together, other than of course that one magical evening where Dr. [Anthony] Fauci had a one-night stand with Dame Judi Dench.”
Notably, Dr. Anthony Fauci, 84, is a well-respected physician-scientist who led the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases for nearly four decades and has served as a chief medical advisor at the White House.
This particular joke did not land well with the gala’s audience, as many attendees reacted with shock and disbelief. According to reports from the Daily Mail, American actress Olivia Wilde was visibly stunned, and the room fell into an uncomfortable silence following Corden’s remarks.
Both Dame Judi Dench and Dr. Fauci were not present at the gala, and as of now, neither has commented on the incident.
Previous Controversies Involving James Corden
This isn’t the first time Corden has found himself in hot water for his choice of jokes. Back in 2017, during the amfAR Gala in Los Angeles, he drew criticism for making light of the serious sexual assault allegations against Harvey Weinstein.
“It’s a beautiful night here in LA. So beautiful, Harvey Weinstein has already asked tonight up to his hotel to give him a massage. It has been weird this week though, watching Harvey Weinstein in hot water. Ask any of the women who watched him take a bath,” Corden quipped.
Corden went on to indicate that Weinstein, who has since been convicted of sexual offenses, was hoping to attend the gala but would have to settle for the nearest “potted plant.”His comments led to visible discomfort among attendees like Tom Hanks and Kate Hudson, with many expressing disbelief and even groaning at the inappropriate humor.
“I don’t know if that groan was because you liked that joke or don’t like that joke. If you don’t like that joke, you should probably leave now,” Corden remarked in response to the audience’s reactions.
Following the backlash, Corden issued an apology, clarifying his intent was not to trivialize sexual assault but rather to condemn the behavior of the perpetrator:
“Sexual assault is no laughing matter. I was not trying to make light of Harvey’s inexcusable behavior, but to shame him, the abuser, not the victims. I am truly sorry for anyone offended, that was never my intention.”
The recent gala, hosted by Corden, was a star-studded affair attended by A-listers such as Salma Hayek, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Lizzo, among others. Technology leaders including Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg were also spotted at the event, which took place in the unique setting of the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.
It’s interesting to note that Corden and Dame Judi Dench share a professional history, having appeared together in the 2019 musical film Cats. Additionally, Dench has been a guest on Corden’s The Late Late Show, adding another layer to their connection.