Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles But Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.
Her team verified that this kind of help are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. 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."
Her last film appearance 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 earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."
