Judi Dench Shares Recollection Challenges But Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when 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 presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed remaining in touch 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 said she needs constant help in public to avoid 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.
Adapting to Change
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: "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 have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part 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.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, however, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."
