The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing 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 swear to you," she told a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
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: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That 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 including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."