The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges But Retains The Bard's Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," 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 falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."
