Judi Dench Reveals Memory Challenges But Retains The Bard's Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her vision and recall, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her team verified that this kind of help are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting 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 airing over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, adding: "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."
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. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, however, including at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
