The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – yet can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still 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 set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that 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, such as at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."
