Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles But Retains The Bard's Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.
Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of vision 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: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."
