The Esteemed Actress Shares Recollection Challenges But Retains Shakespeare Lines.

The iconic actress Judi Dench has opened up about the effects of aging on her vision and memory, revealing she frequently finds it hard to recall upcoming appointments – but can effortlessly recite long sections of the Bard's work.

"I can't remember 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 required. Dench added that her age-related macular degeneration now means faces to appear "in a fog" even up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's devastating," she remarked, adding that it means she can no longer watching television. "I long to see Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she said, "but I can still hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 this week, is leading a new documentary about 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 Christmas holidays.

Regarding Friends and Acquittals

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

In recent months, Dench said she needs constant help in public for fear of tripping due to her vision problems. She was first diagnosed with the eye condition in 2012, a progressive disease that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Coping with New Realities

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can no longer see properly on set," she said in 2023, 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."

Her last screen credit was a small role in the 2022 holiday film Spirited; prior to that she had a more substantial part in Allelujah. That 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 like one last month with Ian McKellen. This past spring, she participated in a live sculpture to raise funds. Dench said she could not see the finished sculpture, but would touch it "if permitted."