Helen Mirren shows off her patriotism in Esquire photo shoot

If there’s one thing you can say about Helen Mirren, the Dame ain’t shy.

The 65-year-old beauty stripped down and then covered up with the Union Flag for the latest issue of Esquire.

[Gallery: Dame Helen Mirren in pictures]

Just last year, the British actress was named the Sexiest Woman Alive by the mag, beating out much younger rival Megan Fox for the title.

Mirren also answered some questions for a Q&A with the magazine, which demonstrated what a true patriot she really is.

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In response to her Oscar win in 'The Queen' she said: ‘Whenever I see the Queen, I always think, ‘Oh, there I am!’'

And when it comes to her jet-setting lifestyle, Mirren says she always brings a bit of Britain with her.

‘I drink just as much tea when I'm in Los Angeles as I do when I'm in London. I take my tea bags with me wherever I go. PG Tips.'

While her photo shoot may demonstrate a wilder side of Mirren, she insists she still possesses some prim and proper qualities.

‘Patience can be a good thing — but not necessarily. Sometimes it's not so bad to be impatient. I'm a little bit too polite.’

In her mid 60s, Mirren seems to be enjoying the prime of her life, showing off a fabulous figure and a free spirit. But it seems it may have taken her a while to get there.

‘The hardest period in life is one's 20s. It's a shame because you're your most gorgeous and you're physically in peak condition. But it's actually when you're most insecure and full of self-doubt. When you don't know what's going to happen, it's frightening.’

Regardless of her age, Dame Helen Mirren can always be expected to show off her less predictable side.

‘Very often I've done the unexpected just to shake things up a bit. That's been a good way to work.’

Read the full interview here.

The August issue of Esquire hits US newsstands this week.