Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Challenges Yet Retains The Bard's Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. 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 acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration 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 film work. "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 challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found 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 earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."
