The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Struggles Yet Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. 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 fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
