Judi Dench Shares Memory Challenges But Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining 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."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed 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 disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, however, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."
