The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges Yet Retains The Bard's Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.
Her team verified that such reminders are at times necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with 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 acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, 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. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role 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 Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, however, including at charity events 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 feel it "if permitted."
