Judi Dench on an actor's life

Judi Dench, at 91 years old, remains a commanding figure in the theater world. During a game of Bananagrams, she demonstrated her sharp wit by pointing out that she has no vowels left as her eyesight deteriorates due to macular degeneration. Despite her failing sight, Dench continues to be deeply committed to theater, stating, "I love the fact of a group of people trying to get it better every night, whereas in film, they say 'Cut,' and you can't make it better."

Her career started on stage in 1957 with Ophelia in Hamlet at London's Old Vic Theatre and her film debut came 40 years later in Mrs. Brown. Dench has been nominated for eight Academy Awards and won one for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I in Shakespeare in Love. She has also appeared in eight James Bond films as M, the MI6 boss.

Dench's memoir, Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It?, reveals a candid and humorous look at her life. Her friend and co-author Brendan O'Hea, with whom she has had a friendship of 30 years, recounts how the book evolved from their conversations. Dench's childhood, faith, and the influence of her Quaker upbringing have all shaped her character, according to O'Hea.

Despite the loss of her eyesight, Dench's love for theater remains undiminished. She plants trees in memory of friends and family, including her late husband, actor Michael Williams, and other notable personalities like Maggie Smith and Sidney Poitier. Dench's humility and lack of vanity are evident, as she regards the praise she receives for her work as a genuine expression of others' affection, rather than a reflection of her own self-image. Despite her age, Dench still has the lines of Shakespeare memorized and can recite them flawlessly.