Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles But Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection 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.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, 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 final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."
