Judi Dench Reveals Memory Challenges Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing 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 sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "And I can't see to read. 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 many companions who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."
