Judi Dench Shares Memory Struggles But Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, 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.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me 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. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
