The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping 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.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."
