'I am ageing with fun, with commitment – but not gracefully'

As Dame Helen Mirren reaches her milestone 80th birthday, the British acting legend shows no sign of slowing down

- WORDS: HILARY MORGAN

Dame Helen Mirren is as fearless and adventurous as ever, and as she prepares to celebrate her 80th birthday on 26 July she can certainly rest in the knowledge that she continues to be one of Britain's most distinguished actors - one who has pushed tirelessly against the idea of how long a woman remains “relevant”, particularly onscreen.

The national treasure has played a host of iconic roles, from Detective Jane Tennison in the television series Prime Suspect to her Oscar-winning turn as Queen Elizabeth II in the 2006 film The Queen.

Here, she reveals the secrets behind her 40-year relationship with her husband, director Taylor Hackford and why the last thing she wants to hear is that she “looks good for her age”...

Hi, Helen! How is your approach to ageing gracefully helping you with turning 80?

I am not ageing gracefully at all! I hate that term. It sounds like you have to be elegant and accepting, and no, I am not. I am ageing with fun, with commitment - but not gracefully. Who cares about graceful? You have to grow up with your own body, your own face and the way it changes. It’s not always easy but it is inevitable. You have to learn to accept it.

How do you feel when someone says you look good for your age?

Insulted [laughs]. “You look good for your age” is patronising. I hate that kind of comment. Be prepared, if you use that phrase, to be dissed in a major way!

You’ve often credited the 1950s Canadian Air Force workout for keeping you fit and healthy...

That’s true. I have to admit, I don’t do it so much now, and I should get back into it. It is a great way to get fit. You start very low and you think, “Oh, this is just much too easy.” Then you start making it more difficult. Then you go, “Oh, my God, no, this is really difficult.” It can be quite challenging, but it works. It’s great.