Judi Dench Reveals Memory Challenges Yet Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – yet can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. 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 a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause 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 said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Her last screen credit 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 Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, however, such as at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."