Judi Dench Shares Recollection Struggles But Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told a magazine.
Her team verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme 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," she stated, "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 failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease 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 film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"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 screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."