Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles Yet Retains The Bard's Verses.
The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.
Her team confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," she remarked, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting 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 festive period.
On Friends and Exoneration
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she needs constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease 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't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."
Her last film appearance was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.
Remaining in the Public Eye
She continues to appear often at events, however, such as at charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
