Judi Dench Shares Memory Struggles But Retains The Bard's Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing 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 was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back 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 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 film appearance was a brief part 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.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, such as at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."
