The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Challenges But Retains The Bard's Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her team verified that this kind of help are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.
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," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason 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 deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year 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, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."
