Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles Yet Retains The Bard's Lines.

The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite extensive passages of Shakespearean text.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she stated to the Radio Times.

Her team verified that such reminders are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned remaining in touch with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."

"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."

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

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears frequently in public, however, including at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."