The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," 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 was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited 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 haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year 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 often at events, 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. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."