The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Challenges Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"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 at times necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."
