The Esteemed Actress 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, revealing she often struggles to recall immediate plans – yet can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "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. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with 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 de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear frequently in public, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."
