Judi Dench Reveals Recollection Struggles Yet Retains The Bard's Verses.

The legendary performer Judi Dench has spoken candidly about the effects of growing older on her eyesight and recall, stating she often struggles to remember upcoming appointments – yet can easily recall long sections of the Bard's work.

"I have no memory of what I'm doing tomorrow, I promise you," she told the Radio Times.

Her team verified that such reminders are sometimes necessary. Dench added that her degenerative eye condition currently causes faces to appear "in a fog" even when up close.

A Condition That 'Crushes'

"It's a crusher," Dench noted, adding that it prevents her from watching television. "I miss seeing Clive Myrie hosting Mastermind," she continued, "however I can at least hear the questions."

The actress, celebrating 91 on Tuesday, is leading 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 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," she stated, "and we are in contact, we text."

Earlier this year, Dench said she needs full-time assistance in public for fear of tripping due to her failing eyesight. She first revealed age-related macular degeneration in 2012, a degenerative issue that is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.

Adapting to Change

She has credited the condition with her effective stepping back from acting. "I can't see on a film set any more," she said in 2023, and continued: "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. Because I have so many friends who will teach me 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 brought her her eighth Academy Award nod for Belfast.

Remaining in the Public Eye

Dench still appears often at events, nevertheless, such as at fundraisers like one last month alongside Ian McKellen. In May, she was sculpted live for charity. She noted she would not be able to see the final artwork, but would touch it "if permitted."