Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles But Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she needs constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
