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

The iconic performer Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her eyesight and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.

Her team confirmed 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 Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," she remarked, 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."

Dench, who turns 91 this week, is fronting a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

Dench also mentioned staying in contact with fellow actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench disclosed she needs constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She first revealed the eye condition 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 said in 2023, and continued: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"It's difficult if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would feel it "if they let me."