In 1995's Goldeneye, Pierce Brosnan's 007 debut, Judi Dench's M chides her agent as a "sexist, misogynist dinosaur".

BBC: James Bond: How his sex life compares with an average man

Dame Judi's nomination in the British actress of the year category also recognises her work in ensemble comedy The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.

BBC: Daniel Craig and Dame Judi Dench in Skyfall

Dame Judi's M is a contender, though she faces a formidable threat in the supporting actress category from Anne Hathaway, whose Fantine in Les Mis is one of award season's hottest tips.

BBC: Baftas 2013 analysis: Will Skyfall have licence to thrill?

But M (Judi Dench) knows he's still the man for the job even if her latest government overseer (Ralph Fiennes) seems to think they're both relics headed for the scrapyard.

CNN: Review: 'Skyfall' is Bond resurrected and reinvigorated

Judi Dench, as Rochester's housekeeper, Mrs.

WSJ: Jane Eyre, Mars Needs Moms and Red Riding Hood | Film Reviews by Joe Morgenstern

Picks for best actress in a drama motion picture went to Kidman, Halle Berry ("Monster's Ball"), Judi Dench ("Iris"), Sissy Spacek ("In the Bedroom") and Tilda Swinton ("The Deep End").

CNN: Globes: 'Beautiful,' 'Moulin' golden

When I worked with Judi Dench in a production of Sondheim's 'A Little Night Music, ' it was like a course in comic timing.

WSJ: Lambert Wilson, Reloaded

"That's a great, great pity, " Dame Judi told BBC Radio 4.

BBC: Entertainment & Arts

Dame Judi has not made a public comment, but the couple's 28-year-old daughter, Finty, e-mailed BBC News Online to thank users who had posted messages of condolence.

BBC: Villagers and friends remember Williams