The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember immediate plans – but can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.
"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.
Her team verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.
"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, "however I can still hear the questions."
Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.
Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."
Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."
"It's challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will teach me the script."
Dench's most recent 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.
Dench still appears frequently in public, nevertheless, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."
Elara is a passionate writer and photographer who shares insights on creativity and mindful living through engaging storytelling.
