Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film 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 frequently in public, however, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
