The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Challenges Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – 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 the Radio Times.
Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench said 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 disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."
