Judi Dench Shares Memory Struggles But Retains The Bard's Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
