The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Challenges Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue 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 said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"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 help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, however, including at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."