The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 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 a separate show airing over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of vision 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: "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. 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 more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, however, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."
