Judi Dench shares that studying strains is ‘not possible’ on account of eye situations

Dame Judi Denchs eyesight is struggling behind the scenes.

The actress, who suffers from age-related macular degeneration, shared that her vision loss has seriously affected her ability to read and memorize screenplays.

“It’s become impossible,” the 88-year-old said during a Feb. 17 appearance on The Graham Norton Show, per People, “and because I have a photographic memory, I need to find a machine that doesn’t just teach me my lines.” , but also tells me where they appear on the page.”

Reflecting on her acting career, which has included roles in films such as “Belfast,” “Murder on the Orient Express,” and “Skyfall,” Judi noted that absorbing lines was never an issue.

“I used to find it very easy to learn lines and memorize them,” she said. “I could do the whole Twelfth Night now.”

It’s not the first time she’s spoken openly about managing her deteriorating vision. As early as 2021, Judi gave insights into how she makes sure the show goes on.