The Esteemed Actress Reveals Recollection Challenges But Retains The Bard's Verses.

The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of aging on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to recall upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I can't remember what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.

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

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "but I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary exploring her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the festive period.

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 was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she now requires constant help in public to avoid falling over due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease 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't see on a film set any more," she explained, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

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

Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought 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 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 feel it "if permitted."