Judi Dench Shares Memory Challenges Yet Retains The Bard's Verses.

The legendary 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 – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.

Her assistants confirmed that such reminders are at times required. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

The star also discussed remaining in touch with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with 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 effective stepping back from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "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 have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears often at events, however, 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 would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if permitted."