Judi Dench Shares Memory Challenges But Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed staying in contact with 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 needs full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
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, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"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 help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part 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, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."
