The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – yet can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
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 has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause 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 cope."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role 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.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."
