The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Challenges Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall 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 told a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow 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."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn 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 Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear frequently in public, however, such as at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."
