The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Struggles But Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are at times required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
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, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent 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 permitted."
