The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Struggles But Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges 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 to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "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 have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear frequently in public, however, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."
