The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Challenges Yet Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to 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 currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she needs full-time assistance 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.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."
Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear often at events, however, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
