The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Struggles Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "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 difficult if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."
