Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Challenges Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, 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 progressive disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
