The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Challenges Yet Retains The Bard's Lines.

The legendary performer Judi Dench has opened up about the impact of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to remember immediate plans – yet can easily recall extensive passages of the Bard's work.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told a magazine.

Her assistants verified that such reminders are at times necessary. She further mentioned that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "blurred" even up close.

A 'Crusher' of a Condition

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

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is fronting a new documentary about her longstanding relationship with Shakespeare's works. She will also be seen being interviewed by Kenneth Branagh in a separate show airing over the Christmas holidays.

On Friends and Exoneration

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

Earlier this year, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed the eye condition in 2012, a progressive issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

Dench has attributed the condition with her de facto retirement from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, and continued: "Reading is also impossible. But you just cope."

"It's challenging if I have any length of a part. I have not discovered a way. Because I have so many friends who will teach me the script."

Dench's most recent screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; earlier that year she had a larger role 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 charity events like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she was sculpted live to raise funds. She noted she could not see the final artwork, but would feel it "if permitted."