The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – yet can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"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, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, 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 degenerative disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."
Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
