The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she needs constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "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. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Her last screen credit 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.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."
