Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Retains The Bard's Lines.

The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of aging on her vision and memory, revealing she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – but can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.

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

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

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's devastating," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie presenting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 91 on Tuesday, is fronting 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 airing over the Christmas holidays.

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 has been exonerated," she stated, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance in public to avoid tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a degenerative disease that is the primary reason of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

She has credited the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

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

Her last film appearance was a brief part in the 2022 Christmas movie Spirited; prior to that she had a larger role in Allelujah. The same year also brought her her eighth Oscar nomination for Belfast.

A Continued Public Presence

Dench still appears often at events, however, such as at fundraisers including a recent one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."