Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles But Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."
