Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will help me learn the script."
Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
