The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Struggles But Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – yet can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "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 first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging 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 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, including at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."