Judi Dench Shares Recollection Challenges But Holds Onto The Bard's Verses.

The iconic actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can easily recall long sections of Shakespearean text.

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

Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it means she can no longer 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 leading a new documentary exploring her longstanding relationship with the works of Shakespeare. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.

On Friends and Exoneration

The star also discussed staying in contact with actor Kevin Spacey, who was found not guilty of sexual assault charges in 2023. "Kevin was cleared," Dench affirmed, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench disclosed she now requires constant help in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

Dench has attributed the condition with her effective stepping back from film work. "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 challenging if I have a substantial role. I have not discovered a way. Since I have so many friends who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears frequently in public, however, such as at charity events like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."