The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages 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 team confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench said 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 leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
