The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Challenges But Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.
Her team confirmed that such reminders are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent 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
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."
