Judi Dench Reveals Memory Challenges But Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall 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 stated to a magazine.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, 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
The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last 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 Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."
