Judi Dench Shares Memory Struggles But Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"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 help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, however, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
