Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Retains The Bard's Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her vision and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes 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 a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "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 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 screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
