Judi Dench Shares Memory Struggles Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her team confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting 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 airing over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears often at events, however, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."
