Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles But Holds Onto The Bard's Verses.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages 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 this kind of help are at times necessary. 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," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about 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 festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
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 I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn 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. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, however, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."
