Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Holds Onto The Bard's Verses.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections 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 required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. 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 actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason 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't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. 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 small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."
