The Esteemed Actress Shares Memory Challenges Yet Holds Onto The Bard's Lines.

The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can effortlessly recite extensive passages of the Bard's work.

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

Her team verified that such reminders 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, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can at least hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of assault allegations in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she now requires constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back 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."

Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

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