Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Challenges Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. 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, 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 about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping 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 vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."
