Dame Judi Dench regifts Christmas present - a red thong - to Dame Imelda Staunton in ShelterBox charity video

Dame Judi Dench has regifted a red thong she received as a Christmas present, saying: "Red's not my colour.” The Oscar winner passed the skimpy lingerie on to friend Dame Imelda Staunton who was equally uncomfortable to have received such a gift.

No, you haven’t entered the Twilight Zone, the celebrated actresses were, in fact, part of a funny video created to help raise funds for a good cause during the festive season. The video is promoting giving “a gift that means something this Christmas” by making a donation to ShelterBox - a charity that specialises in emergency shelter and other essential household items for families hit by disaster, conflict, or the climate crisis. 

During the 30 second film, Dame Judi holds up the underwear declaring “red's not my colour” before popping it into a Christmas gift bag ready to leave at the door of her fellow stage legend. Cue Dame Imelda who opens the bag in an excited fashion before looking rather red-faced when she realises what she’s received, uttering "it's a big bit isn't it?" and throwing the miniscule garment to the floor.

Dame Imelda added: “I’ve received many things in my time, but this might be the most unexpected".

Behind the light-hearted video is a heartfelt message that not all gifts need to be glamorous to make a real difference. Dame Imelda explained: “Dame Judi’s regift is a cheeky reminder that the best presents aren’t always under the tree - sometimes, they’re the ones that make a difference to people you’ll never meet.

“More people than ever have been forced from their homes and ShelterBox is doing what it can to support people in such difficult times. The aid is practical and made to last, things like tents, solar lights, and blankets. Items that will make a real difference to families who've lost so much.”

With operational headquarters in Cornwall, the charity also has 13 affiliate organisations worldwide. Shelterbox has been Rotary International’s project partner in disaster relief since 2012 and has supported more than three million people since it was founded in 2000.

Dame Judi added: "I thought Dame Imelda might appreciate the red thong more than I did – though I suspect it’s not quite her colour either! But if it gets people talking about giving gifts that truly matter, then it’s worth every giggle.”

For more information, visit the ShelterBox website.