The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Struggles But Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from 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 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
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges 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 first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging 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 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."
