Judi Dench Shares Recollection Challenges But Retains The Bard's Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed 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 devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
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 cope."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."
