The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Challenges Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"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 at times required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection 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 actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, 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. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."
