Judi Dench Shares Memory Struggles But Holds Onto The Bard's Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that this kind of help are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty 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 full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, however, including at charity events including a recent 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 they let me."
