Judi Dench Reveals Memory Challenges But Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told a magazine.
Her team verified that such reminders are at times necessary. 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 a crusher," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of sight 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, and continued: "And I can't see to read. 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 many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
