The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall 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 assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," she remarked, 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 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part 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 Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."
