The Esteemed Actress Reveals Memory Struggles But Retains The Bard's Verses.

The legendary actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – yet can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I swear to you," she stated to a magazine.

Her assistants verified that such reminders are sometimes necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was acquitted of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "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 teach me the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears often at events, however, including at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would feel it "if they let me."