Judi Dench Shares Recollection Challenges But Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team verified that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining 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 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of 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
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will help me learn the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
