The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants verified that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
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: "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. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."
