Judi Dench's tough health update
Judi Dench has admitted that due to her degenerative eye disease she can barely see on a film set and can no longer read her scripts.
The Oscar-winning actress known for her role as M16 head M in seven different James Bond films, told UK publication The Mirror that her age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has gotten so bad that she can now barely see.
“I can’t see on a film set any more,” she told the publication.
“And I can’t see to read. So I can’t see much. It’s difficult for me if I have any length of a part. I haven’t yet found a way.
“But you just deal with it. I have so many friends who will teach me the script,” she added.
The eight-time Academy Award nominee had previously said that she is unable to drive due to her AMD.
“It’s the most terrible shock to the system. Ghastly. It’s terrible to be so dependent on people,” she had previously said.
However, the actress is determined to maintain her independence and has no plans to stop working.
“I have an irrational fear of boredom. That’s why I now have this tattoo that says carpe diem (“seize the day”). That’s what we should live by," she said.
The actress has won various awards throughout extensive career including six BAFTAs, two Golden Globes and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Queen Elizabeth I in Shakespeare in Love.
Dench currently lives with her partner David Mills, and has shared how grateful she is to have someone so caring by her side.
“I’ve had many, many good friends, but it’s been very unexpected to have somebody new who is as caring as my partner, David.
“I feel very lucky indeed. And to laugh with somebody is terribly important! Laughing is the most important thing. We laugh about everything,” she said.
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