Judi Dench Shares Recollection Challenges Yet Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard 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 at times necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition 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, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that 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 frequently in public, however, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."
