The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Struggles But Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue 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. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Her last screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie 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
Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, including at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."
