Judi Dench Shares Recollection Challenges But Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – yet can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told a magazine.
Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with 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 assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent 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 Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
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 participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."