The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Challenges But Retains The Bard's Lines.

The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her vision and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to a magazine.

Her team verified that this kind of help are at times required. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Since I have many companions who will teach me the script."

Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."