Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
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 was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of vision loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."
