The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Holds Onto The Bard's Verses.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," 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 film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."