The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Struggles Yet Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are at times necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting 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 festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement 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 difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
