Judi Dench Shares Recollection Struggles But Retains Shakespeare Lines.

The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and memory, stating she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of Shakespearean text.

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

Her assistants confirmed that this kind of help are sometimes required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," she remarked, explaining that it prevents her from watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "however I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading a new documentary about her deep connection with Shakespeare's works. Audiences will also see her being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show set for broadcast over the Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

The star also discussed remaining in touch with 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 said she now requires constant help in public for fear of falling over due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of vision loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "And I can't see to read. But you just cope."

"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I haven't yet found a way. Because I have many companions who will help me learn the script."

Dench's most recent screen credit was a brief part in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned 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. In May, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she would not be able to see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if they let me."