Judi Dench Shares Memory Challenges But Holds Onto The Bard's Verses.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember 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 the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining 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 longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."