The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Challenges Yet Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Her last 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 Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, including at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."
