Legendary actress Dame Judi Dench has shared a poignant update regarding her struggle with a serious eye condition that has led to considerable vision loss. In a recent interview with ITV News, the 86-year-old actress revealed that she “can’t recognize anybody now” due to the effects of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Dench Opens Up About Her Condition
During her conversation, Dench explained that her declining eyesight has made it increasingly difficult for her to engage with the world around her. When asked why she has stepped back from appearing on camera, she candidly responded, “Because I can’t see anymore.” Her diagnosis, which she received in 2012, has progressively worsened, affecting her ability to read and watch television.
Dench’s comments highlighted the emotional weight of her condition. She stated, “But I can’t recognize anybody now,” emphasizing the profound impact that vision loss has had on her daily life. While she indicated that she can identify shapes and outlines, it is only because she knows certain people “so well.”
Her friend and fellow actor, Sir Ian McKellen, who joined her for the interview, expressed his support, saying, “But we can see you.” This prompted a light-hearted exchange between the two, with Dench acknowledging that she sometimes greets strangers as if she knows them, which drew laughter from both.
Reflecting on a Rich Career
Despite the challenges posed by her condition, Dench remains celebrated for her remarkable talent. McKellen praised her, stating, “Judy is a great actor on top of everything else. So very, very special.” Dench responded affectionately, highlighting her admiration for him, and the warmth of their long-standing friendship was palpable throughout the discussion.
Dench and McKellen share a rich theatrical history, having performed together in a production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth with the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1976. Now, nearly fifty years later, they have reunited not only to reflect on their past but also to advocate for innovative approaches to teaching Shakespeare in schools.
While her vision may be failing, Judi Dench’s spirit and passion for the arts remain undiminished. Her candid sharing of her experiences offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by those living with similar conditions, as well as the importance of companionship and support in the face of adversity.
