The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Challenges But Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are at times necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed staying in contact 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."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, 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 many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."
