Judi Dench Shares Memory Challenges Yet Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and memory, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause 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, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."
