The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Challenges But Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of sight 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, 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 help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie 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
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."
