The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Struggles Yet Retains The Bard's Lines.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"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 required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative 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 film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, 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."
Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."
