Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles But Retains The Bard's Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition 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 acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, however, including at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."
