Judi Dench Reveals Memory Struggles Yet Holds Onto Shakespeare Lines.

The iconic performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the impact of growing older on her vision and recall, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall immediate plans – yet can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.

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

Her assistants verified that this kind of help are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "blurred" even when up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, explaining that it means she can no longer watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can still hear the questions."

Dench, who turns 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 airing over the festive period.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

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," Dench affirmed, "and I hear from Kevin, we text."

In recent months, Dench said she now requires full-time assistance 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 primary reason of vision loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from film work. "I can't see on a film set any more," she explained, adding: "Reading is also impossible. But you just deal with it."

"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Since 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; earlier that year she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That year also earned her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

She continues to appear often at events, however, including at charity events including a recent one last month alongside 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."