Judi Dench Shares Memory Struggles Yet Retains The Bard's Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.
Her team verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned 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," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by 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 acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult 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."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
