Judi Dench Shares Memory Struggles But Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.
Her team verified that this kind of help are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes 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 presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast 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 was cleared," 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 failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, 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 haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role 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, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers like one last month with 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 feel it "if they let me."
