Dame Judi Dench has given a poignant update on her health, revealing that her worsening eyesight means she often struggles to recognise people, leading some to mistakenly think she is being snobbish.
The Reality of a Worsening Condition
In a candid joint interview with her close friend Sir Ian McKellen, the 90-year-old acting legend discussed the severe impact of her age-related macular degeneration. The condition, which she first disclosed in 2012, causes a gradual loss of central vision. Dame Judi confessed she particularly dislikes saying its name, telling Sir Ian: "I can't see anyone. I've got, you know, that thing. I can't recognise anybody. I can't see the television, I can't see to read."
She explained the social difficulty this creates, noting to ITV News that people often misinterpret her lack of greeting as aloofness. "People think, 'Oh, get her. She's got very grand.' It's because I can't see!" she said. When Sir Ian asked if she ever mistakenly greets strangers, she laughed and admitted it happens "sometimes".
Loss of Independence and Career
The condition has profoundly affected her daily life and heralded the end of her storied acting career. She revealed to podcaster Trinny Woodall that she can no longer go out alone for fear of falling. "I have to [have someone with me now] because I can't see and I'll walk into something and fall over," she said, describing the loss of independence as "ghastly" and "terrible to be so dependent on people."
When questioned about future theatre or film projects, her response was stark. She simply stated "no", and in 2024 explained heartbreakingly, "No, no, I can't even see!". This marks a likely end to a 68-year professional journey that garnered her an Oscar, a Tony, two Golden Globes, ten BAFTAs, and seven Olivier awards.
Looking Forward Despite Challenges
Despite stepping back from acting, opportunities still arise. This Christmas, she will appear in a television advert for the disaster relief charity ShelterBox. In the spot, she is seen passing a red lacy thong as a gift to her friend Dame Imelda Staunton.
She is also reuniting with Sir Ian McKellen, her co-star from a celebrated production of Macbeth fifty years ago, to champion a new scheme aimed at introducing Shakespeare's works to younger audiences. While her vision may be fading, her dedication to her craft and charitable causes clearly remains undimmed.
