The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Struggles Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary 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 long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.
Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining 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 leading a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing 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," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight 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 cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found 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 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at charity events 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 final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."
