Judi Dench Shares Recollection Struggles But Retains The Bard's Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team verified that such reminders are at times necessary. 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 a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection 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.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow 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 disclosed she needs constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason 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 said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
