Judi Dench Reveals Memory Challenges But Holds Onto The Bard's Verses.
The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.
Her team verified that this kind of help are at times required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
A Condition That 'Crushes'
"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can at least hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.
On Friends and Exoneration
The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."
In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult 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."
Dench's most recent film appearance was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.
A Continued Public Presence
She continues to appear frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."