The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Holds Onto The Bard's Verses.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her team verified that such reminders are at times necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with 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 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 needs full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed 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 de facto retirement 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 cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will help me learn the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought 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. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
