Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.
Her team verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting 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. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, including at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
