Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles Yet Retains The Bard's Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – yet can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even when 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 said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed 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 progressive issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, 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 many companions 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 more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."