Judi Dench Shares Recollection Struggles Yet Retains Shakespeare Lines.
The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – but can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.
"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.
Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.
A 'Crusher' of a Condition
"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."
The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.
Regarding Friends and Acquittals
Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.
Adapting to Change
She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."
"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. 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; 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
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."