The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Struggles Yet Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by 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 actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at charity events like 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."
