Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – 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 told a magazine.
Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease 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 no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
