Judi Dench Reveals Memory Challenges But Retains Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and recall, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
In recent months, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn 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. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, including at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
