As Time Goes By remains one of the most beloved and consistently praised British sitcoms of the 1990s and early 2000s, thanks in large part to a remarkable cast whose chemistry carried the series for nearly a decade. The loss of Geoffrey Palmer in 2020 hit audiences hard; his portrayal of Lionel Hardcastle — understated, perfectly timed, and quietly brilliant — was a cornerstone of the show. His partnership with Judi Dench created a warmth and authenticity that made the series unforgettable.

The rest of the cast continued to build varied and successful careers. Judi Dench, already a major force before the sitcom, expanded her presence across stage and film, becoming globally recognized as M in the James Bond franchise. In recent years, she has spoken openly about her deteriorating eyesight and how macular degeneration has gradually pushed her to step back from acting, a reluctant retirement driven by health rather than desire.

Philip Bretherton (Alistair Deacon) carved out a steady career across British TV, theatre, and more recently voice work, demonstrating adaptability and longevity. Moira Brooker (Judith) continued working reliably across drama and television, while Jenny Funnell (Sandy) diversified her career, taking on extensive voice acting and later training as a certified City of London guide — even becoming highly praised for her historical walking tours.