Judi Dench Shares Memory Struggles But Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times 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 a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement 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 difficult if I have any length of a part. 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 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."
