The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. 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 teach me 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. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
