Judi Dench Reveals Memory Challenges But Retains The Bard's Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however 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 being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires 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 disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited 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 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."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
