Dame Judi Dench, the acclaimed actress celebrated for her extensive career in film, television, and theatre, has candidly discussed her struggles with short-term memory loss and deteriorating eyesight. In an interview with Radio Times, Dench disclosed, “I can’t remember what I’m doing tomorrow, I swear to you,” highlighting the impact of her condition as she marks her 91st birthday today.
Despite these challenges, Dench retains the ability to recall significant portions of Shakespeare, indicating that her long-term memory remains intact. However, she is grappling with macular degeneration, a condition that affects her vision and reduces the clarity of faces, describing them as “a fog.”
Challenges in Daily Life
Dench shared the extent of her vision impairment, stating that it has become so severe that she requires assistance while walking to avoid accidents. “Somebody will always be with me,” she noted during her appearance on the “Fearless” podcast. “I have to now because I can’t see and I will walk into something or fall over.”
The actress expressed her frustration at no longer being able to watch television, saying, “It’s a crusher. I miss seeing Clive Myrie doing ‘Mastermind,’ but I can hear the questions.” Her openness about these difficulties paints a poignant picture of the realities faced by those dealing with similar health issues.
Dench also mentioned her growing anxiety before public outings, stating, “I’m always nervous before going to something. I’ve no idea why… I pretend to have no eyesight.” This admission underscores the emotional toll that her conditions have taken on her, in addition to the physical challenges.
A Legacy of Acclaim
Throughout her illustrious career, which spans more than 60 years, Dame Judi Dench has garnered numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a Tony Award, two Golden Globe Awards, four British Academy Television Awards, six British Academy Film Awards, and seven Olivier Awards. Her impressive filmography includes iconic roles such as Queen Elizabeth I in “Shakespeare in Love” and M in several James Bond films. Other notable films in her career include “Room with a View,” “Pride & Prejudice,” and “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel.”
As she navigates these personal challenges, Dame Judi Dench continues to inspire many with her resilience and remarkable talent, proving that even in the face of adversity, her artistic spirit remains unyielded.