Judi Dench Shares Memory Challenges But Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that such reminders are at times required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back 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 help me learn the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned 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 with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
