The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told a magazine.
Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least 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 remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "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."
Her last screen credit 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 often at events, nevertheless, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."