Judi Dench Shares Recollection Challenges But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," 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. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear frequently in public, however, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."
