The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her team verified that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes 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 hosting Mastermind," she said, "however 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. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
Dench has attributed 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 cope."
"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."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."
