Judi Dench Shares Memory Struggles But Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and recall, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her team verified that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she needs constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will help me learn the script."
Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, however, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
