The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Struggles But Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and memory, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are at times necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at charity events including a recent one last month alongside 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 they let me."
