The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Struggles Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.
Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 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 a separate show airing over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"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 help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year 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
Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."
