The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Struggles But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."
