The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Struggles But Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and memory, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.
Her assistants verified that this kind of help are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "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. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, such as at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."
