The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Struggles Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Verses.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she told the Radio Times.
Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed staying in contact 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 said she needs constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative 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 no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because 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; earlier that year she had a more substantial part 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, however, including at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if they let me."
