Judi Dench, 91, Reveals Heartbreaking Reason She Can't Act Anymore
The acclaimed actress cited her deteriorating eyesight as the cause for her inability to perform on stage or screen.
Judi Dench, the 91-year-old Oscar-winning actress, has revealed that she can no longer act due to her worsening eyesight. In an interview with BBC Radio 4’s “Today” program, Dench explained that her vision has deteriorated to a point where she can no longer read scripts, be on stage, or participate in film productions.
“I can’t do a play any more,” Dench stated. “I can’t do a film any more. I can’t read any more.” She described the challenges of her condition, noting that she struggles to recognize people, even the program's host, Emma Barnett. “I go up to lots of the wrong people and give them an almost hug and say, ‘Oh sorry, didn’t realize,'” she added.
Dench, who was diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in 2012, reflected on the impact of her condition. She mentioned that while she couldn't see the sensational bluebells in bloom this summer, she relies on memory and what she can discern to appreciate natural beauty. Her mother also suffered from AMD.
Despite these limitations, Dench has previously pushed back against retirement rumors. In an interview with The Times, she expressed her desire to avoid labels like “retire,” “vintage,” and “old,” stating, “I want to be like Newton Blick, who died in his dressing room after a performance.” She humorously added a wish to be one of those women who “throw themselves out of planes when they’re 100.”
Dench’s remarks come after a period where she has spoken candidly about her struggles with AMD. In July 2023, she described her condition as “ghastly” and “terrible to be so dependent on people.” She also noted in a November 2025 ITV appearance that she couldn't attend events alone due to the risk of walking into things. Her career has spanned decades, earning her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a Tony Award, and Golden Globe Awards.