The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Challenges But Retains The Bard's Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall 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 necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause 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 no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. 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; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent 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 final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."