The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Struggles But Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – yet can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.
Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
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 falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease 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, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since 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; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."
