The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Struggles But Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
