The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Challenges But Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and recall, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme airing over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
The star also discussed staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.
Coping with New Realities
She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back 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 deal with it."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."
Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear often at events, nevertheless, such as at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."
