Judi Dench Shares Recollection Challenges Yet Retains The Bard's Lines.

The legendary actress Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – 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 stated to a magazine.

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

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but 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 in conversation with Kenneth Branagh in another programme set for broadcast over the festive period.

On Friends and Exoneration

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

In recent months, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of vision 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, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just deal with it."

"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 screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, however, such as at fundraisers like one last month with Ian McKellen. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."